Risky Benefits: Recent Episodes
FBMC Benefits Management, Inc.
Welcome to Risky Benefits, a podcast from FBMC Management, Inc. As your personal advisor on all things benefits, join host Rick Farris, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, every month while we educate you with all the ins and outs of compensation packages. From topics about insurance to employees and everything in between, you’ll walk away with the knowledge needed to get the most out of healthcare benefits.
In this episode of Risky Benefits, the team is joined by Dr. Astrid Gonzalez to discuss the transformative approach of minimally invasive dentistry at Tiny Teeth of Tally. The podcast delves into Dr. Gonzalez's journey from a traditional dental practice to embracing a root-cause-first, patient-centered method for managing dental decay. Dr. Gonzalez shares her passion for pediatric dentistry, discussing how her new approach helps treat dental issues non-invasively, catering to individual needs and maintaining oral health with preventive care. The conversation covers the importance of managing the oral microbiome, utilizing specialized products, and the broader implications for insurance structures and overall healthcare. Dr. Gonzalez emphasizes the need for education, personalized care, and the potential for industry-wide change towards a more holistic approach to dental health. Listen to learn how minimally invasive techniques are revolutionizing pediatric dentistry and bringing about happier, healthier smiles.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
In this episode of Risky Benefits, Derrick Daniel, Vice President of Large Market at TASC, explores how innovative benefit solutions can boost ROI, engagement, and care outcomes. Derrick highlights TASC’s leadership as the nation’s largest privately held benefit account TPA, serving 80,000+ clients including the federal government.
Key insights include TASC’s universal benefit account platform that unifies multiple benefit accounts, the My Cash program for faster reimbursements and financial flexibility, and differentiated HSA and VEBA strategies. Derrick also explains how TASC’s unique revenue models keep pricing competitive.
The episode offers a clear look at how TASC delivers comprehensive, forward-thinking benefit administration.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
In this episode of Risky Benefits, the focus is on heart health, community wellness, and leadership beyond boardrooms. The guest, Hailey Bruce, Development Director at the American Heart Association, shares her personal journey with congenital heart defects and her professional dedication to cardiovascular health. Hailey discusses the American Heart Association's efforts in research, community engagements like the Big Bend Heart Walk, and new initiatives targeting health in the construction industry. The episode also touches on the importance of mental health, stress management, and the wide-ranging impact of cardiovascular research.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
In this episode of Risky Benefits, the podcast delves into the world of employee benefits and healthcare innovation with special guest Kristin Stamatis from Primary Health Partners. Kristin discusses her professional background, sharing insights about the membership-based direct primary care model, which eliminates insurance billing and offers unlimited access to primary care for a flat monthly fee. Kristin explains the benefits of this model for both patients and employers, highlighting reduced claim costs, increased employee satisfaction, and improved health outcomes. The conversation also covers upcoming initiatives, including a new bill allowing HSA funds for direct primary care membership and expansion plans for Primary Health Partners. Listeners are encouraged to explore new options in healthcare and benefits.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
In this episode of Risky Benefits, we discuss the opioid crisis with Nico LoDolce, founder of Dolce Vida Consulting, and Jose Bracero from Champion Health. The conversation introduces Covert, a groundbreaking platform that helps organizations proactively address opioid addiction by analyzing medical claims to detect early symptoms of withdrawal. The platform ensures privacy by de-identifying employee data and targets prescribers to update them on safe opioid prescribing practices. Success stories, including significant cost savings for a Florida school district, underscore Covert's impact. The episode highlights the importance of early intervention and the substantial benefits it provides to both individual health and organizational productivity.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
In this episode of Risky Benefits, we welcomes Emily Davis, Vice President of Partnerships and Sales at First Stop Health, to discuss strategies for creating a company culture to be proud of. Emily shares insights from her 20 years of experience in the benefits industry, highlighting the significance of direct virtual care, healthcare innovation, and meaningful personal interactions. She talks about the essential elements of a healthy workplace, emphasizing the role of play, purpose, and potential while cautioning against excessive pressure. Emily also explores the concept of viewing employee benefits as gifts, advocating for a human touch and active listening to enhance employee satisfaction and loyalty. Additionally, she provides personal anecdotes and practical examples on how to integrate these philosophies into company culture effectively.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
This episode of the 'Risky Benefits' podcast features an in-depth conversation with Lindsay Sheets, Vice President of Branding at Lucky Goat Coffee. Lindsay discusses the growth and evolution of Lucky Goat, a beloved local coffee shop that has expanded into a regional brand known for its exceptional coffee and people-first culture. The discussion covers Lucky Goat's journey from wholesale to retail, the challenges and strategies of maintaining culture and quality during expansion, and the importance of robust employee benefits and career growth opportunities. Lindsay also shares insights on the brand's franchising efforts, the impact of documented processes on scaling operations, and the future plans for Lucky Goat. The conversation highlights the company's commitment to both customer and employee experiences, making it a unique and thriving business.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
In this episode of Risky Benefits, we speak with Andrea Messina and Danielle Thomas from the Florida School Boards Association. Andrea and Danielle provide insights on the outcomes of the 2025 legislative session, emphasizing important changes in school start times and school safety measures. They discuss the implementation challenges and financial implications for school districts. Additionally, they address the increasing need for schools to adapt to emerging technologies and the importance of building relationships with legislators. The discussion also touches on strategies for efficiently managing school resources amid evolving educational landscapes, including the role of benefits and support for staff in school districts.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
In this episode of Risky Benefits, the team welcomes Denise Wilson, a dedicated board member at Independence Landing, a non-profit organization providing safe, affordable, and supportive housing for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Denise shares her personal journey, motivation for her involvement, and the impactful work being done at Independence Landing. Listeners will learn about the community's focus on fostering independence, supporting residents through service coordination, and upcoming projects like Phase Two aimed at more supported living. The discussion also covers how community members can contribute and support initiatives, including volunteer opportunities and funding needs. For more information or to make a donation, listeners are encouraged to visit the Independence Landing website.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Welcome to another episode of Risky Benefits! In this episode, we welcome back Emily Faimoa, Vice President of Client Administration at FBMC, to discuss the intricacies of consolidated billing and reconciliation. Emily elaborates on how her team alleviates the burdens faced by HR, payroll, and accounting teams by managing multiple vendor payments, providing concise invoicing, and performing detailed reconciliations. Emily explains how their services streamline benefits administration, ensuring employees' benefits are managed accurately and efficiently. Tune in to learn how consolidated billing and reconciliation can simplify your organization's benefits process.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Welcome to another episode of Risky Benefits! This week, we sit down with Scott Clemons and Michelle Matt, president and vice president of the Clemons Company, to discuss their recent partnership with FBMC and the unique approach they bring to employee benefits consulting. From Scott's switch from law to insurance and Michelle's 25-year journey with the company, learn about the personal services, innovative practices, and deep community involvement that set the Clemons Company apart. They share insights into the firm's history, their commitment to ethical practices, and what makes their services special for both small and large employers. Additionally, they reflect on the benefits of their partnership with FBMC, emphasizing shared values, cultural compatibility, and enhanced resources. Tune in for an enlightening conversation on delivering exceptional employee benefits solutions with a personal touch. Visit fbmc.com/podcast for more episodes.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Welcome to another episode of Risky Benefits! This week, our special guest is Dr. James Wilcox, who served as Superintendent of Longview Independent School District from 2007 to 2023 and now works as an Employee Benefits Consultant for FBMC. Dr. Wilcox shares fascinating insights from his long career in education, reflecting on the changes in the school system and the pressures today's students face. He discusses the importance of planning and innovative thinking in both education and employee benefits. Additionally, he provides tips for school districts on improving financial health and leveraging legislative opportunities like Texas Senate Bill 1882. Tune in as Dr. Wilcox shares his experiences and advice on creating a positive impact through education and benefits consulting.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
This episode of 'Risky Benefits' features Betty Galan, Executive Director of Development for the Jackson Health Foundation. Betty provides an overview of the foundation's role in fundraising for the Jackson Health System and discusses their upcoming event, 'One Day for Jackson,' a campaign similar to Give Miami Day, centered around raising funds for the health system. The foundation supports various hospitals and programs, including the construction of a new emergency room at Jackson Memorial. Betty also highlights other initiatives like the Guardian Angels Luncheon and holiday toy drive, emphasizing community involvement and volunteer opportunities. Listeners are encouraged to visit onedayforjackson.org to learn more and participate.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
This episode of 'Risky Benefits' features Laura Nolan, Director of Public Sector Sales at Humana, who shares her 25 years of experience in the industry to discuss key trends in dental and vision insurance. She talks about the impact of employer group benefits on public sector employees, such as teachers and city workers, and highlights the importance of preventative care and on-site services. Laura also shares personal insights about her wellness goals and underscores the benefits of AI in healthcare for improving efficiency and early diagnosis. The conversation sheds light on how robust benefits plans are crucial for employee recruitment and retention in both public and private sectors.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
In this episode of Risky Benefits, the hosts introduce Elizabeth Fire and Timree from BEXA and Allstate, respectively. They discuss a new partnership aimed at improving healthcare for women, particularly focusing on early detection of breast cancer. The episode highlights the functionality of BEXA's handheld technology, which addresses gaps in care by providing pain-free, radiation-free breast exams. This is particularly important given the rising rates of breast cancer and the underutilization of mammograms. The conversation also covers the unique aspects of the BEXA service model, its implementation, and the logistics of bringing this solution to various workplaces, particularly those with centralized female employee populations. The episode concludes with a call to action for employers and listeners to explore BEXA's offerings and make use of the resources provided by Allstate.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
In this episode of 'Risky Benefits,' sponsored by Humana, the hosts discuss the importance of 401k planning with Jim Matthau, retirement services manager for the Vista 401k team. Jim provides an overview of Vista 401k, a supplemental retirement plan for select Florida school districts, and emphasizes the need to start investing early. He explains the tax benefits, flexibility in contribution adjustments, and the importance of diversification within a single plan. The conversation also covers the advantages of consolidating retirement funds and highlights the support available from Serity Partners, an advisory firm. The hosts and Jim underline the goal of ensuring financial well-being for a comfortable retirement.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
In this episode of Risky Benefits, we’ll learn about grief support strategies for building a more compassionate workplace. Listen to an enlightening conversation with Dr. Michelle Mariscal, EnergyM Certified Professional in Training and Development, and a seasoned expert in grief recovery and workplace wellness, to explore the profound impact of grief on employees and organizations alike.
Michelle sheds light on the Grief Recovery Method — a structured eight-week program designed to help individuals process different types of emotional pain and loss — with an emphasis on the concept of grief-informed workplaces, where leadership plays a critical role in fostering supportive environments. Michelle also introduces us to "HeartMath," a technique to manage emotional stress through heart-centered practices.
Join us as we uncover how to build a compassionate workplace culture that doesn't just respond to grief but actively supports the mental and emotional well-being of all employees. Tune in, subscribe, and let's navigate this essential topic together.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Welcome to another episode of Risky Benefits! This week, we invite you to explore the world of Specialty Billing with our special guest, Emily Faimoa, Vice President of Client Administration at FBMC. Listen as Emily unravels the complexities and advantages of specialty billing solutions. From helping School Districts manage payroll deductions for part-time staff and substitutes to offering seamless payment options for employees on leave, Emily breaks down how specialty billing can ease administrative burdens, ensure seamless employee benefits, and reduce liability.
Whether you're an HR professional grappling with employee benefits or simply curious about innovative financial solutions, this episode promises to broaden your understanding of how specialty billing can revolutionize the way you handle benefit payments. Tune in to this episode for vital specialty billing information to streamline your benefits administration!
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Welcome to another episode of "Risky Benefits," where we dive deep into all things related to benefits that make a difference for our listeners and their families. In today's episode we welcome Maureen McGuinn, Associate Director, and Carlye Collison, Development Manager from the American Cancer Society (ACS). Maureen and Carlye discuss the pivotal role of ACS in cancer prevention, research, and support through actionable insights and inspiring volunteer stories that emphasize the power of education and community in the fight against cancer. Listen as they share innovative research initiatives, such as cohort studies that highlight groundbreaking findings on modifiable risk factors for cancer.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Welcome back to Risky Benefits! In this episode, our hosts Rick and Kyla dive into a fascinating conversation with Vincent Hunt, a trailblazing entrepreneur and Chief Innovation Officer, known for his work in digital innovation and creativity. In this episode, we'll explore the dynamics of diversity in innovation, the crucial role of a Chief Innovation Officer, and the difference between "possibility thinkers" and "competition thinkers." Listen to how varied perspectives can birth groundbreaking ideas and why fostering an inclusive environment at work is essential for creativity.
Hunt reveals how organizations can nurture creativity and drive transformative ideas through his latest initiative, ARC (Adaptive Roadmap to Cultures of Creativity), which aims to infuse a structured approach through creativity councils, innovation labs, and energized work environments!
Whether you are an entrepreneur, an organizational leader, or simply curious about the future of creativity and innovation, this episode of Risky Benefits is packed with insights that you won't want to miss. Stay tuned!
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Welcome to another insightful episode of Risky Benefits! Today, we're diving deep into musculoskeletal health with Special Guest Chad Nolan, Founder of NRG Physiotherapy. This episode provides insight into musculoskeletal health, touching on the complex interconnectedness of the body, the unexpected sources of pain, and the importance of personalized, knowledgeable guidance in physical therapy.
Chad shares his transformative journey in physical therapy, including the Keystone Reset Technique, an unconventional focus on pelvic asymmetry that addresses movement patterns and mobility to understand the root cause of a patient’s pain. Chad advocates for a shift toward a more intelligent pathway in healthcare—one that incorporates early musculoskeletal screening, conservative care options like physical therapy, and low-barrier self-care strategies.
Learn how forward-thinking employers can foster cultural change toward employee health, yielding cost savings and enhanced productivity! Stay tuned as we redefine the approach to pain and wellness with enlightening perspectives, actionable advice, and transformative solutions.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
As the modern workforce evolves, effective communication becomes increasingly crucial. Listen to the latest Risky Benefits episode as podcast guest, Mark Donohue, president and COO of Truehugh, shares his insights on the future of artificial intelligence and communication in the HR industry.
Mark discusses how AI can streamline HR processes, such as distributing policy information and improving accessibility, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining human interaction and engagement. Since employees prefer human communication over technology for engagement and decision-making in voluntary plans, being intentional with communication timing and avoiding information overload is essential – and AI can help HR strike the right balance.
So, whether you're an HR professional looking to optimize your communication plan or simply curious about the future of employee engagement, this episode of Risky Benefits has something for you. Get ready to discover new ways to connect with your workforce in the age of AI!
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
**We’re thrilled to share our latest conversation with Carlye Fabrikant, wellness coordinator at the School District of Palm Beach County. Carlye’s insights into employee wellness are sure to inspire and provide valuable takeaways for all HR and wellness professionals.
In this episode, we delve into:**
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Customization of Wellness Programs: Carlye emphasizes the need to focus on individual employee needs and passions. By utilizing wellness champions and listening to feedback, wellness programs can be tailored for maximum impact.
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Mental Health Awareness: With the ongoing impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, addressing mental health needs has become more important than ever. Carlye and Rick discuss the creation of resources and initiatives to support mental well-being at all stages.
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Engagement and Connection: It’s not just about providing tools but engaging personally with individuals to understand their unique challenges and drives. This human connection is vital for the success of wellness initiatives.
💼 Tune in to learn more about how your organization can adapt and thrive in employee wellness. Let’s make wellness a priority! 💼
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Carlye Fabrikant
Wellness Coordinator at The School District of Palm Beach County and
President of Florida School District Employee Wellness Coalition
PalmBeachSchools.org
Florida School District Employee Wellness Coalition // LinkedIn
Accomplished and self-directed Health and Wellness Professional, Coordinator, and Educator with 25 years of experience in health, wellness, medicine, and fitness. Looking for a position in health and wellness management.
Specialties:
• Leadership
• Customer Service
• Program development
• Sports, Recreation, and Rehabilitation
• Clinical Experience
• Research
• Corporate Wellness
• Public Speaking and Health Education
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Sick of high healthcare costs? Learn how dependent verification audits can save your company thousands!
This week’s episode of Risky Benefits delves into the world of employee benefits to bring eye-opening insights and innovative solutions through Clear Track, a pioneering, 100% woman-owned third-party enrollment firm. Listen as John McFarland, President of ClearTrack HR, explores cost-saving strategies through Dependent Verification Audits (DVA) and Medicare Consulting to better serve both employers and employees via a super-friendly, tech savvy DVA platform. McFarland shares how employers can save significant money and improve compliance by identifying ineligible dependents and educating employees about Medicare options.
Tune in to learn about the streamlined processes, the importance of strategic communications, and the pivotal role of ClearTrack HR’s services in enhancing your HR department's efficiency and bottom line. Don’t miss out—listen in to discover how you can optimize your benefits strategy today!
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
In this enlightening episode of Risky Benefits, we dive deep into the future of breast cancer screening. With less than 40% of women getting annual mammograms due to various fears and inconveniences, screening innovation couldn't be more timely!
Listen as special guest Dr. Monique Gary, a renowned breast surgeon and Chief Medical Officer at Bexa brings us up to speed on Bexa's revolutionary elastography technology, designed to provide a painless, radiation-free alternative to traditional mammograms. This podcast episode explores the critical importance of early detection in breast cancer, how it drastically improves survival rates, and Bexa's mission to make these life-saving exams accessible to all women, including those in underserved communities. Plus, find out how employers are partnering with Bexa to offer their employees convenient and comprehensive breast cancer screenings, giving women peace of mind and control over their health.
Get ready for an episode filled with hope, innovation, and crucial information on groundbreaking technology and a compassionate, women-led approach.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
For the average American, a $5,000 out-of-pocket medical expense can be a financial catastrophe, pushing many to forgo necessary healthcare. Patients who face the difficult decision of receiving medical treatment at home instead of in a hospital underscores a grim reality: the high out-of-pocket costs and deductibles causes patients to delay or skip doctor visits due to affordability issues.
Listen as Risky Benefits guest Lester Morales, of Next Impact Advisory and Marketing Firm, offers a comprehensive critique of our current healthcare system while also providing a hopeful glimpse into potential reforms. From questioning the systemic design flaws to showcasing successful models like Rosen Health, an initiative that challenges the status quo and aims for a healthcare system that truly serves everyone, Morales shares how the Rosen Health model has saved over half a billion dollars in the past 30 years using an independent TPA and direct contracts with healthcare providers. Rosen Health's innovative approach serves as proof that cost transparency and direct patient care can lead to significant savings, better employee retention, community impact, and educational initiatives.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Lester J. Morales
Founder and Chief Executive Officer
NextImpactllc.com
As a passionate thought leader, keynote speaker and advisor in the human capital and employee benefits space, I’m always looking for game-changing solutions that foster innovation and shatter the status quo. As the title of my company suggests, that search centers around finding the next impactful strategy that will help employer clients burnish their value proposition and grow. In the world of social media, we dub that never-ending journey #whatsnext. Our latest approach involves transparent health benefits, whose comprehensive plan design builds transparency into the cost of healthcare delivery and access.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Get ready for a heartening episode as we dive into the inspiring work of the Waterfront Rescue Mission with our special guest, Mark Isbel, Executive Director of Waterfront Rescue Mission. Mark offers profound insights into the mission's crucial work and rising challenges in serving the homeless and addicted populations along the Gulf Coast.
With 75 years of service, the mission is a cornerstone of hope along the Gulf Coast, providing life-changing support to the homeless and addicted. Discover the impact the mission is making, understand the challenges they face with the rising number of those in need, and learn how even hospice care is being provided to uphold human dignity. Whether through volunteer work or supporting their thrift stores, find out how you can join the mission's noble cause.
Don't miss this deep dive into the realities of homelessness and the beacon of hope that shines in the form of the Waterfront Rescue Mission, all here on this episode of Risky Benefits.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Listen in to our latest episode of Risky Benefits, with Stacey Edgar, founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Venteur. Stacey delves into the intricacies of Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements (ICHRAs), a paradigm shift in employer-sponsored healthcare. Learn about the practicalities, benefits, and success stories surrounding ICHRAs.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
In a politically-charged climate, it may be difficult to make clear decisions about your personal or your family’s health and wellness. A knee-jerk opinion may lead to a whole world of unintended consequences – as though you’re rolling the dice and you don’t fully know the rules of the game. High-stake circumstances can turn differences of opinion into great divides and the level of risk to your family may become a dangerous game.
Listen as second-time Risky Benefits podcast guest, Dr. Jonathan Wiesen, CMO and MediOrbis founder, discusses how thinking through problems and following the data can lead to better health outcomes as you decide on levels of health or wellness risk. Dr. Wiesen covers topics surrounding the cost benefit of vaccination, medical weight loss drugs, Covid-19 impact, long-term health costs in employer-sponsored plans, and the network problem.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Dr. Jonathon Wiesen, MD
Founder, CMO MediOrbis; Medical Technology Advisor; Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine
MediOrbis.com
Dr. Jonathan Wiesen is a pulmonary and critical care physician, teacher, researcher and medical technology pioneer with a passion for clinical smedicine and telehealth innovation.
Graduating from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine with distinction in research, he completed his training in internal medicine as well as pulmonary and critical care at the Cleveland Clinic - earning an advanced teaching degree and several teaching and research awards.
As founder and chief medical officer of MediOrbis, he led the development of ground-breaking clinical programs for monitoring and managing chronic medical conditions and providing integrated medical specialty services. He also piloted the development of a global network of top physicians to deliver the company’s telemedicine services worldwide.
Currently, Dr. Wiesen is a pulmonary specialist at Ben Gurion University’s Soroka Medical Center, where he directs the Cardio-Pulmonary Exercise Program. For many years, he has advised and assessed medical technology companies and served on the board of several companies, specializing in clinical assessment and due diligence.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Leadership Speaker and longtime Associate Editor for Sport Illustrated, Don Yaeger is on on mic at Risky Benefits for Episode 15. Listen in as we talk about the journey to personal greatness. The effect that perspective has on our ability to consider different definitions of greatness, and the goal to be “a river not a reservoir”. This podcast is all about how we can learn from each other’s life journeys to understand both ourselves and each other better.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Don Yaeger
Inspirational Keynote Speaker, Team Builder, NY Times Best-selling Author, Host of Corporate Competitor Podcast, Executive Coach, Forbes Senior Contributor, and Maxwell Leadership Thought Leader
In my 30+ years as an author and journalist for Sports Illustrated, I've had the incredible fortune of spending time with some of the greatest winners of all time. While interviewing legends like Michael Jordan, Coach John Wooden, Michael Oher, Walter Payton and countless others, I've always carved out time to discuss GREATNESS -- and what, specifically, it takes to get from good to GREAT.
From these conversations I’ve developed a “suite” of keynote speeches as well as virtual learning courses that takes a deeper dive into what it takes to Build a Great Team.
This suite of speeches is deeply rooted in three of my books GREATNESS: The 16 Characteristics of True Champions, where I discuss high-performing individuals; Great Teams: 16 Things High Performing Organizations Do Differently, lessons learned from the greatest team-builders of all time; and one of my latest New York Times best-sellers, TEAMMATE: My Journey in Baseball and a World Series for the Ages, where I share how to become invaluable without being most valuable.
Please stop by my website to learn more: www.donyaeger.com.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
You may think personal and career growth is only achieved by moving from one company onto the next every few years. Although it may work well for some people, stability and loyalty to one company can be just as rewarding. Working at one company can be likened to “watching your kid grow, make mistakes, and yet you enjoy their continued growth and success.”
Listen as Risky Benefits salutes podcast guest, Gingy Sampson, FBMC Benefits Management Market Resources Manager, as she reflects on her 37-year career and upcoming retirement from FBMC. Gingy shares her career highlights, including everything from her first FBMC interview, her growth and development under great FBMC leadership, what she learned through her company experiences, her perspective on self empowerment and advocacy, along with her parting advice to others.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
You’re an hour into leading or participating in a team meeting and you think to yourself, “We’re not making ANY progress. What’s our goal?” You’re reluctant to ask the clarifying question of “What does success look like?” but you know there’s got to be a better way. By understanding meeting facilitation as an effective leadership tool, you’ll increase the ability for the team to transparently share ideas, honor people’s time, and enlarge team members by recognizing the value of group involvement and consensus.
Listen as Risky Business Podcast guest, Diana Gerwitz, Owner and President of Acrux Consulting, highlights how self-awareness, effective communication, and leadership presence in meetings directly impacts the positive output and refinement of new ideas. She discusses the role of a meeting facilitator who quietly observes extroverted versus introverted team members in attendance to unlock the power for all meeting participants to engage in constructive conflict to efficiently problem solve and innovate as a team.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Diana Gurwicz
President & Owner of Acrux Consulting
Diana R. Gurwicz is a Certified Master Facilitator, Trainer, and Executive Coach. Over the past 25 years, Diana has helped clients all over the world in varying industries improve their performance, invigorate their organizations, and streamline their processes to not only win, but to change the game in their respective environments.
Diana is the founder and primary facilitator for Acrux Consulting, a business she began to help corporations and individuals benefit from and learn the value of facilitation. In addition to managing her own clients, Diana sits on the board of INIFAC, (the credentialing body for Master Facilitators) and has been partnering with Leadership Strategies, Inc. as a core team member and trainer of facilitation skills since 2009. Diana has credentials in both Change Management and HR Executive Leadership. In her free time, Diana assists local at-risk youth with preparations for college.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Giving yourself grace to endure life’s stresses and advocating for yourself when something feels “off” with your body can lead to your personal growth, self awareness – and in some cases – your own survival. When healthcare limitations and red tape become obstacles to seeking the healthcare answers you need, do not give up.
Listen as Risky Benefits Podcast guest, Kelli Spills, shares her very personal cancer journey to help others gain perspective on the realities surrounding cancer symptoms, self advocacy when healthcare challenges don’t lead to efficient and proper diagnosis, and how developing a treatment plan, or researching alternative treatment trials can promote mindful change and positive outcomes.
If you also want to see Kelly's video that she speaks about, feel free to click & visit Stand Up To Cancer's YouTube page.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS:
Kelly (Spill) Bonito
3 Year Colorectal Cancer Survivor
Featured on: Stand Up 2 Cancer, The Washington Post, NBC, Everyday Health, CBS
Kelly (Spill) Bonito is a 3 year colorectal cancer survivor due to immunotherapy. She started her journey with cancer when she was 28 years old. Her symptoms arose when she was 8 months pregnant with her son. She was brushed off from a handful of doctors telling her it was internal hemorrhoids. With persistence to self advocate, she finally found a provider who listened. Kelly's plan was to explore her options by visiting three cancer centers. She was looking to find her best fit by the feeling of comfort and best treatment option. Her first stop was Memorial Sloan Kettering and it ended up being her last stop. Her initial treatment plan was chemotherapy, oral chemotherapy/radiation, and surgery. This treatment option would lead her to never being able to carry another baby again, as well as, forever having a colostomy bag. This led her and her husband to freeze embryos prior to treatment in hopes to be able to bring another baby into this world. She arrived at her appointment to schedule her first day of chemotherapy and left that appointment with a new treatment plan. Kelly's tumor tested positive for a genetic mutation called MMrd, which allowed her to be a candidate for an immunotherapy now named Dostarlimab. Kelly made a brave decision being the fourth patient in the USA to undergo this treatment.
Kelly is a wife,now a mother of two, runs her own health and wellness business, and is a patient advocate for Colorectal Cancer and clinical trials. She continues to advocate to bring hope and awareness for this cancer that is on the rise for individuals 50 and under. She used to be the quitest woman in the room, but now wants her voice heard on how important it is to self advocate. Kelly has been interviewed by CBS, NBC, and The Washington Post. She was featured on Stand Up 2 Cancer and currently writes a blog for
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
As the future of work evolves with the onset of artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and the general return-to-office debate, organizations are going above and beyond simply providing the tools and training necessary for workers to be successful. These days, it is increasingly important for employers to meet both threshold and activator needs to improve employee work experiences and overall job satisfaction.
Listen as Sean Morris, Employee Experience Solutions Architect, shares his optimism for the future of work. Morris defines the basic threshold needs of materials fulfillment for employees to operate successfully, creating a secure work environment where trust can flourish, and providing a sense of belonging to engage employees as a whole person.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS:
Sean Morris
Employee Experience Solution Architect
Sean Morris is a catalyst for change—delivering hundreds of millions of dollars of value over his career. He meets organizations where they are and helps to unlock their potential while simultaneously addressing their acute needs.
Sean’s aim is to create a learning organization, one adept at problem-solving and managing at the right level to meet business needs. To do this he balances qualitative and quantitative approaches and leverages a hybrid skill set taken from organizational effectiveness and operational excellence. This includes leadership coaching, process mapping and refinement, management system design and deployment, assessments and data analysis, cross-functional collaboration and communication, and lean thinking. Furthermore, Sean is not afraid to “roll up his sleeves” and be both a thinker and doer in service of getting the right things done.
His work experience has taken him as far north as the Arctic Circle and as far south as Brazil as well as to Scotland, Canada, Australia and to an offshore drilling platform in the Gulf of Mexico.
Sean’s education has produced in him a consistent curiosity that makes learning a lifelong pursuit. He holds certificates in Change Management, Lean Six Sigma, and Executive Coaching as well as an M.B.A from the Thunderbird School of Global Management where he learned the value created by combining the hard business skills (data and process) with the softer ones (facilitation and coaching). He received his Bachelor’s in Humanities from BYU which taught him how to learn and to see a problem from multiple perspectives. Furthermore, his educational experience was enriched by semesters abroad in Mexico, Spain, and the Near East as well as by a seminar in Washington D.C.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Taking a Different Approach to Embracing ChatGPTAre you intimidated by ChatGPT and Artificial Intelligence (AI)? With advanced AI technology becoming more developed everyday, the subject of job security can be a common concern. But from an employer-centric perspective, the more resources you have at your disposal, the more efficient and productive you can be. Keeping an open mind to great opportunities and becoming an early adapter of AI can help you develop an arsenal to improve upon your daily work.
Listen as Risky Business Podcast guest, Efrain "Ricky" Baez, Jr., Chief HR Consultant at Baezco, takes a hard look at how AI impacts work efficiency and innovation, concerns surrounding job security, and approaching AI to be used as a tool and not THE tool.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS:
Efrain "Ricky" Baez, Jr.
Chief HR Consultant - HR Talk Podcast Host
Baezco.com
Picture this: a dynamic, results-driven HR powerhouse with a contagious enthusiasm for transforming businesses and empowering employees. That's Efrain "Ricky" Baez Jr. in a nutshell.
With over two decades of HR expertise under his belt, Ricky has made a name for himself as a published professional who knows how to strategically align HR competencies with business goals. But what sets him apart is his refreshing, down-to-earth approach that resonates with everyone from executives to front-line staff.
Ricky understands that the "H" in HR is more than just a letter—it's the heart of any successful organization. By forging strong partnerships and creating a fun, vibrant learning environment, he helps companies minimize legal risk while maximizing employee engagement and satisfaction.
As a proud four-year veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Ricky knows a thing or two about leadership and teamwork. He leverages that experience to guide business leaders from "here" to "there" using talent management, training and development, and leadership coaching strategies that deliver real, measurable results.
But Ricky isn't just a seasoned practitioner—he's also an accomplished educator. As a faculty member for the Master of Human Resources program at Rollins College in Winter Park, FL, he shares his passion for HR with the next generation of professionals.
So if you're looking for a dynamic, knowledgeable HR partner who knows how to get results, look no further than Ricky Baez Jr.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
People have complex medical situations in life and the wrong decision can lead to disaster. With MediOrbis, a physician-founded digital health company, it’s reassuring to know that providers are readily available to help get patients with complex conditions through difficult times with expert, innovative telehealth services.
Listen as Risky Benefits podcast guest, Dr. Jonathan Wiesen, CMO and MediOrbis founder, discusses how MediOrbis fills the need for comprehensive care through integrated specialty telehealth, telehealth utilization and trends, and medical case studies. MediOrbis provides access to top-tier physicians and innovation in clinical services to help deliver the best care to patients in a time and cost-effective manner.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS:
Jonantha Wiesen, MD
CMO and MediOrbis Founder
MediOrbis.com
Dr. Jonathan Wiesen is a pulmonary and critical care physician, teacher, researcher and medical technology pioneer with a passion for clinical medicine and telehealth innovation.
Graduating from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine with distinction in research, he completed his training in internal medicine as well as pulmonary and critical care at the Cleveland Clinic - earning an advanced teaching degree and several teaching and research awards.
As founder and chief medical officer of MediOrbis, he led the development of ground-breaking clinical programs for monitoring and managing chronic medical conditions and providing integrated medical specialty services. He also piloted the development of a global network of top physicians to deliver the company’s telemedicine services worldwide.
Currently, Dr. Wiesen is a pulmonary specialist at Ben Gurion University’s Soroka Medical Center, where he directs the Cardio-Pulmonary Exercise Program. For many years, he has advised and assessed medical technology companies and served on the board of several companies, specializing in clinical assessment and due diligence.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
When demands exceed capacity, it can be difficult to navigate work and life harmony. During this Risky Business podcast, you’ll learn through managing your own energy, being aware of your personal recovery needs, and training to balance dimensions of your own wellness, you can help bring out your best level of service and orchestrate the energy of your team to be their best too.
Listen as Jill Sharp, who specializes in performance and help coaching, leadership, development, and key note speaking, discusses important points surrounding stress management, health and wellness within mental health, the “whole self” concept, work life integration, shifting mindsets, social and relational energy, and employer tips to help employees stay healthy.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS:
Jill Sharp, BA, MPC, CPT, CHC, MMC
Health & Performance Coach, Keynote Speaker
Founder & Chief Change Officer, Sharp Performance Group
YourBestEnergy.com
As a Performance Coach, Jill delivers training and development programs that cultivate healthy, high-performing leaders and teams. She also partners with organizations as a keynote speaker to inform, inspire, and empower others with the principles to perform in business and in life.
For the last 17 years, Jill has been on a mission to create positive change and unleash potential. As an independent consultant, she supports leaders and teams from Fortune 500 companies who are committed to creating cultures of engagement and productivity while supporting employee health & well-being. Through her work with The Human Performance Institute as a master-level Performance Coach, she has been able to strengthen her knowledge and expertise in the strategies of energy, resilience, and performance management, and his now sharing that message even more broadly to drive impactful change. Those looking to further sharpen their personal and professional edge, will partner with Jill 1:1 to leverage her broad leadership experience and expertise.
Jill has strategically partnered with thousands of clients to create positive change. One worth noting began in 2017, when she joined MSNBC’s Mika Brzezinski on a global initiative to support women in knowing and growing their value. This experience sparked one of Jill’s latest initiatives - supporting women in strengthening their communication and negotiation skills to create the outcomes they want, along with a greater sense of empowerment, in their personal and professional life. This has evolved to a coach-role on the Game Changer negotiation team with The Molly Fletcher Company, where Jill has been able to take negotiation to a new level and an even broader audience.
Jill’s expertise in leadership is grounded in her own trials and tribulations as a leader – experiences that have helped her grow and better support other leaders. One of her most impactful and rewarding leadership roles was with Johnson & Johnson. As the Global Development Lead, she was responsible for the development of 150 coaches from 14 countries and 17 languages in sharing the performance energy message world-wide. Jill was also a regular columnist for a women’s magazine where she shared science-based, practical guidance on how to have the passion, focus, energy, and health needed to live your best life.
Although Jill’s career has grown to a global stage, she got her start in public education, then transitioned into the corporate arena where her success in sales, management, learning & development, and coaching led to new opportunities. Jill continues to work for and with various individuals and companies planning and facilitating full-scale leadership programs, conducting 1:1 and group performance coaching, desi
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Listen as second-time Risky Benefits podcast guest, Jim Klein, President of the American Benefits Council – a Washington, D.C. based employee benefits public policy advocacy organization – discusses the remarkable amount of bipartisanship that occurs surrounding employee benefits issues, such as: mental healthcare, Telehealth provisions, site neutrality payment reform, demand for greater transparency among pharmacy benefit manufacturers, Roth Catch-Up provision, and paid leave.
He explains the challenges of consistent movement on these issues beyond must-do legislation, i.e., the annual federal debt ceiling legislation. Often times, bipartisan issues get flushed out based on political timing and influence. Klein shares his insight on the lack of moderate viewpoints to help create balance and trust among parties – and its impact on actual policy changes.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS:
Jim Klein, President
americanbenefitscouncil.com
Jim Klein is president of the American Benefits Council. He joined the Council in 1988 as Deputy Executive Director and has served as Executive Director/President since 1992. Previously, Jim was manager of pension and health care policy for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and, before that, practiced law for a Washington, D.C. firm specializing in employee benefits. He also worked as a Legislative Assistant for a member of Congress.
Jim serves on the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plan’s Government Liaison Committee and was the recipient of the 2018 Public Service Award from that organization. He is a fellow of the American College of Employee Benefits Counsel and a member of the editorial advisory board of Benefits Quarterly. In the global benefits arena, Jim serves as a private sector advisor to the Working Party on Private Pensions of the Paris-based Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD); and the Council is actively engaged with several international organizations representing the interests of U.S.-based companies operating outside the United States. Jim graduated with a degree in bioethics from Tufts University and a law degree from the George Washington University School of Law.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Need a new strategy to get rid of debt or become debt-free? The Bank on Yourself concept may revolutionize how you invest.
Listen as Sarry Ibrahim, of thinkinglikeabank.com, and Rick Farris, FBMC Growths Officer, discuss the Bank on Yourself Concept – an alternative investment strategy that allows employees to use accumulated cash value from their whole life insurance policy to fund investments or eliminate debt. Find out how the Bank on Yourself concept can be applied at your company!
MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS:
Sarry Ibrahim
Bank on Yourself® Professional
CEO & President of Financial Asset Protection
ThinkingLikeABank.com
Sarry Ibrahim is a financial specialist, private money lender, real estate investor and member of the Bank On Yourself Organization. He helps business owners, real estate investors, and full time employees grow safe and predictable wealth regardless of market conditions using a financial strategy that has been around for over 160 years.
Sarry started this journey when he was in grad school completing his MBA. He worked for companies like Allstate, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Healthspring, and Humana before founding Financial Asset Protection, a financial services firm that focuses on one sole concept; the Bank On Yourself ® concept.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
3MPWR takes on the sometimes, mundane, annual benefits enrollment and applies its three sacred “Es” – Engagement, Education, and Enrollment – to create a customer-centric, mindful, and innovative experience for employees.
Listen as David Perry, 3MPWR Managing Principal, and Rick Farris, FBMC Growth Resources Officer, discuss 3MPWR’s rigorous counselor training to target employer initiatives, a cutting-edge tech tool, concise communication strategies to help employees engage, and supplemental benefit trends.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS:
David Perry
Managing Principal at 3MPWR Enrollment Solutions3mpwrenroll.com
I have over 25 years experience in Employee Benefits and I am learning something new every single day. I love working and collaborating with our clients and industry experts from all industry spectrums to help solve the ever changing challenges employers are facing. I have a passion for engaging, educating and empowering members to understand their employer's benefit offering and helping facilitate their enrollment and utilize their benefits!
You won’t find the stereotypical insurance products with New Benefits. Listen as Jake Cleer and Collin Ray of New Benefits discuss the products and services that are unique and highly sought after by employees.
When you need benefits that aren’t fitting into a set plan, New Benefits offers services that aggregate benefits like caregiving support and fertility services to help employees get what they need. Think outside the box and get creative with benefits solutions by New Benefits**.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS:**
Collin Ray
Vice President of SalesNewBenefits.com
New Benefits offers over 35 health and lifestyle non-insured employee benefits that are a great complement to any coverage you already have in place. With products such as Telemedicine, Healthcare Navigation, Mental Health, Fertility Advocacy, Pet Care, ID Theft Protection, Legal Services and more on one card, you can now decrease the administrative burden for your clients by packaging all of these non-insured products in one place.
We also take care of the billing, compliance, eligibility, member services, print and fulfillment. Contact me at Collin.ray@newbenefits.com if you are looking for a low-cost creative solution to your healthcare needs.
Jake ClearVice President of SalesNewBenefits.com
Jake Cleer amplifies benefit programs. As Vice President of Sales at New Benefits, Jake tailors non-insured benefit programs to brokerage and consulting firms around the country, helping their clients add value to the employee benefit offering while redirecting claims from their health plan. Jake speaks fluent “meme,” believes crazy socks are the new business tie, never worked for State Farm, and (most importantly) learns something new every day from his son and daughter.
Retirement for everyone! After years of study into retirement plans, the government found that many Americans were not covered by a qualified retirement plan. Many people either did not qualify due to their part-time status, did not have access to a retirement plan, or just do not know enough about them to use them.
The government amended Security Act 1.0 in order to provide more inclusive solutions for all Americans. Listen in to learn along with Andrew Zito, COO of Advus Financial Partners LLC, about how the SECURE 2.0 Act will affect your retirement plans and your business.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Andrew S. Zito, AIF®, CPFA®
President / Chief Operating OfficerAdvusPartners.comAndrew has always been fascinated by complex things. The more complicated something is, the more he wants to understand it and fix it. From applying technology to solve business problems to working with plan sponsors to untangle complicated situations, he thrives on finding efficient and effective solutions.
Andrew oversees the operations of Advus, translating the firm’s vision and objectives into actionable processes. His responsibilities encompass technology solutions, business processes, service standards and human resources. He also is directly responsible for the retirement plan division and setting its strategic direction.
Andrew specializes in the qualified retirement plan aspect of the Advus business. Throughout his career, he has worked with retirement plans in a variety of different capacities. He began his career as an intern at Advus (formerly LAMCO Advisory Services, Inc.) assisting with compliance testing. He then spent several years working on platform conversions for retirement plans before moving into his present consulting role. Within the retirement plan space, he specializes in complex plan situations including plan mergers, spinoffs, complex regulatory audits, M&A activity and error corrections.
Andrew received a BS in finance from Bentley College. He also earned the Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF®) and the Certified Fiduciary Plan Advisor (CFPA) designations.
Andrew lives in Longwood, Florida, with his wife, Amanda, and their three children. He likes to be out in the water, to watch his kids compete in sports and to tackle projects around the house.
Listen in on this thoughtful discussion about business and personal growth from author and speaker Bob Burg.
As co-author of The Go-Giver series, Bob is on mic to walk us through what it means to be of value in today's job market and how to be an authentic leader. His strategies guarantee everyone from buyers, sellers, to management will walk away feeling valued and offering quality solutions.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Bob Burg
Co-author, TheGo-Giver Series TheGoGiver.com Bob Burg shares how a subtle shift in focus is not only a more uplifting and fulfilling way of conducting business but the most financially profitable way, as well. For 30 years he’s helped companies, sales leaders, and their teams to more effectively communicate their value, sell at higher prices with less resistance, and grow their businesses based on Endless Referrals.Bob has regularly addressed audiences ranging in size from 50 to 16,000 — sharing the platform with notables including today’s top thought leaders, broadcast personalities, Olympic athletes and political leaders including a former United States President.Although for years he was best known for his book Endless Referrals, it’s his business parable, The Go-Giver (coauthored with John David Mann) that captured the imagination of his readers.The Go-Giver, a Wall Street Journal and BusinessWeek Bestseller, has sold over a million copies. Since its release it has consistently stayed in the Top 25 on Porchlight’s (formerly 800-CEO-READ) Business Book Bestsellers List. The book has been translated into 30 languages. It was rated #10 on Inc. Magazine’s list of the Most Motivational Books Ever Written, and was on HubSpot’s 20 Most Highly Rated Sales Books of All Time.Bob is the author of a number of books on sales, marketing and influence, with total book sales approaching two million copies.The American Management Association named Bob one of the 30 Most Influential Leaders and he was named one of the Top 200 Most Influential Authors in the World by Richtopia.Bob is an advocate, supporter and defender of the Free Enterprise system, believing that the amount of money one makes is directly proportional to how many people they serve.He is also an unapologetic animal fanatic and served on the Board of Directors of Furry Friends Adoption and Clinic in his town of Jupiter, Florida.
Risky Business’s guest, Chuck Hector, Chief Revenue Officer for “Papa,” sponsored by Allstate, highlights a pioneering employee flexible family care-giver benefit with social, non-medical, support. Papa Pals provide companion care services and support for everyday needs to Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and commercial health plan members — improving whole health, one personal connection at a time. Through Papa, members have immediate access to family help for their dependents, ranging from rides to the grocery store, post office, or to pick up medications or to help with afterschool childcare or light house help. The broad spectrum of helpful tasks that Papa Pals can complete practically “Uber•fy” companion support fulfillment. The Papa benefit assists millions of dependents fulfill family care needs through the Papa app and call center. The podcast addresses the overall market need for the Papa service, membership eligibility, cost overview, and success stories.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS:
Chuck Hector
Chief Revenue Officer, Papa
Papa.com
An experienced executive consulting sales leader skilled in developing and implementing new product strategies targeting large U.S corporations, associations, credit unions, membership clubs, financial service and insurance companies. Proficient at leading cross-functional teams including senior leadership, marketing, product management, account management, information technology, vendors and external channel partners.
People who feel more connected show lower levels of anxiety, depression, and a greater empathy for themselves, their community, and other people. That’s where Listeners on Call can empower its audience. Listen to Dr. Jada Jackson talk about how to stay connected even during your busiest season. Listeners on Call offers telephonic support through conversation that can facilitate healthier lifestyles and elevate your wellbeing. We all want healthy relationships, and Listeners on Call facilitates that through impactful connections with people.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS:
Dr. Jada Jackson Hill
Vice President, Listeners On Call
ListenersOnCall.com
Dr. Jada Jackson Hill is a licensed mental health counselor and serves as the Vice President of Well-Being at Listeners On Call. Jackson Hill supports the Listeners On Call Care Team by advising on current mental health issues and concerns, while promoting healthy and relevant conversations around mental well-being and support.
Additionally, Dr. Jackson Hill, Ed.D, LMHC, LPC, is the President of Total Life Counseling Center in Dallas, an author, leadership trainer, Listener curriculum writer and a resource on topics ranging from mental health to professional development. Dr. Jackson Hill has a passion for supporting others as they navigate their journey towards mental well-being.
Ochsener Digital medicine is on mic to talk about remote patient management. They offer solutions for chronic disease management that will make proactive differences in your health. This means even when you’re at home, and trying to manage your Type II diabetes, you have a personal care team and chronic illness management plan just a click away. With real time communication and health coaches as well as clinicians, you can manage your chronic illness with both technological support and a team of experts.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS:
David Houghton, MD
System Chair, Telehealth & Digital Medicine
Ochsner Health
David J. Houghton, M.D., M.P.H. earned his Medical Degree from the Medical College of Georgia and his Master’s in Public Health in epidemiology at Emory University. He completed his internship, neurology residency, and movement disorders fellowship at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.
After then serving as Assistant Professor and Neurology Residency Program Director at the University of Louisville, Dr. Houghton joined the staff at Ochsner Health System in 2012 as Section Head of Movement & Memory Disorders and Vice-Chair of the Department of Neurology. Since 2016, he has also served as the Medical Director of Telehealth - harnessing technology to create unique virtual forward-facing clinical connections between Ochsner’s providers and patients across the Gulf South.
His role expanded to include growth of Digital Medicine for chronic disease management in 2019. At Ochsner, Dr. Houghton has been awarded System Physician of the Month, Ochsner “Top 75” Physician, and Neurology Teaching Faculty of the Year, and he completed The Health Management Academy Physician Leadership Program in 2018. Dr. Houghton is board-certified in neurology and his publications have appeared in peer-reviewed journals, an online medical text, a patient resource from the National Parkinson’s Foundation, and a textbook on deep brain stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson’s disease.
Rachel Montalbano
Regional Account Director, Digital Medicine
Ochsner Health
Over the last 20+ years, Rachel Montalbano has worked in several roles within the employee benefits industry. With an extensive knowledge from the consulting perspective, to bringing benefit solutions from the insurance carrier, Rachel has worked with Employers and Consultants alike in bringing value and cost containment solutions to their benefits programs. In 2021, Rachel joined Ochsner’s national team to offer clinical solutions and population health strategies to Employer groups throughout the country.
Physician associations there to help physicians get education and resources that empower doctors to get benefits they need. On mic is Fraser Cobbe, Executive Director of Florida Orthopedic Society, to talk more about the importance of physician associations and how you can get employee benefits that not only benefit you, but also your network.
Redefine HR Work with BenAdmin SystemsA worthwhile discussion about benefits administration systems and how technology is changing the way we can administer. Whether it’s ACA compliance, billing, or taking care of the HSA/FSA every piece of the benefits is taken care of more easily and is highly accessible. This week we have Workterra on mic to discuss how the benefits administration space is moving from standalone systems to more integrated ones, and how Workterra manages all the nuances in handling employee benefits.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Ben Yomtoob
President of Workterra
Workterra.com
Ben has over 25 years of executive leadership experience in HR & benefits technology consulting, healthcare reform, IT, technology development and finance.
Ben Yomtoob has served as Workterra's President since May 2021.
Prior to Workterra, Ben served as a Senior HR & Benefits Technology Consultant at Gallagher, a global insurance brokerage, risk management, and consulting firm, where he helped carriers, HR technology service providers (including Workterra) and investors refine and adjust their business strategies to optimize their success in the market. Prior to joining Gallagher, Ben served as SVP, IT & Operations at Delta Dental where he spearheaded national efforts in entering the private exchange market and implementing health care reform. Ben has also served in multiple executive leadership positions at Intrado (formerly West), an early audio, web and video conferencing innovator, and AT&T.
ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Jared S. Pope is the CEO/Founder of Work Shield. Jared grew up a Texas cowboy, became a Horned Frog (TCU) and then rode a Mustang (SMU Law) into the legal profession. After riding the great plains of legal experience at two nationally recognized law firms (Baker Botts and Fulbright) and general counsel of a mid-sized insurance brokerage company, he hung his own shingle specializing in HR, ERISA and Benefits for the past 18 years, as well as started several other companies. As an entrepreneur, HR-specialists, and innovator, Work Shield grew from an idea of how employers handle workplace misconduct issues to an innovator covering over 100K employee lives and disrupting how legal, HR, technology, DE&I and culture issues are handled by large and small companies across the U.S.A. Work Shield was recently honored as one of Fast Company's 2022 World Changing Ideas Awards in the Workplace Category! When Jared is not providing simplified business solutions, he spends time with his wife and family cooking in the kitchen, watching his two children play various sports or can be found on the golf course with friends!
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Shane Foss, Chief Executive Officer
HoorayHealth.com
With over 20 years of tenure as an executive in the medical industry, Shane Foss became frustrated with how under-served Americans were with the current healthcare options. He set out to make a change and in 2018 achieved this goal through launching Hooray Health, an unconventional health insurance company dedicated to providing affordable basic and urgent health care alternatives to high-deductible health plans.
Through Hooray Health, Foss and his team focus on offering peace of mind to lower-income individuals and families who face medical challenges, while also providing business owners with an affordable way to reward and retain employees. Partnering with companies like Sedera, Ameritas, and Aflac, they have been able to add critical services and supplemental plans giving immense value to employers and individuals.
Throughout his professional experience, Foss has negotiated complex, multi-million-dollar contracts, worked in device sales management, created business strategies, and optimized P&L. He holds an MBA from Rice University’s, Jones School of Business, a BS from the University of the Incarnate Word, and a Surgical Technologist Certificate from the United States Air Force.
Healthcare Policy Update: The LTC CrisisThis week on Risky Benefits, Trustmark Executive Director of Product Innovation, Adam Bezman, is on mic with Rick to talk about how the Long Term Care crisis can affect your employees, what new Long Term Care legislation we can expect, and why insurance solutions might be the right stop gap measure to ease the burden of the Long Term Care crisis.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Adam Bezman
Executive Director of Product & Innovation
TrustmarkBenefits.com
Adam joined Trustmark in March 2016. As Executive Director of Product & Innovation, he is responsible for all life and disability products, as well as well as the development of all new products. Adam has more than 20 years of product development experience in the health and food industries at Life Fitness, a division of Brunswick, and Kraft Foods. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in economics and speech communications from Indiana University and his MBA from the University of Chicago.
Anneliese Finn, author of The Code, is on mic to talk to Rick about how to succeed in the world of sales as a woman. With 20 plus years of experience in the medical sales world, Anneliese has collected a treasure trove of lessons from her career that have led to bigger success. Through this podcast and her guidebook, you’ll learn the basics of building social awareness and self awareness to help you navigate the many pitfalls that come up with a career in sales. For the lowdown on business acumen you don’t learn in school, check out this podcast on all the ways to level up your success as a sales person.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
More About Our Guest:
Anneliese Finn
Author of The Code Cracked
TheCodeCracked.com Work Background: Anneliese Kagan Finn has been in medical sales for more than 20 years. After starting her career with Ethicon-Endo Surgery (a division of Johnson & Johnson), Anneliese worked for Guidant Corporation as a pacemaker representative. She then moved into Peripheral Vascular Surgery with FoxHollow Technologies and Medtronic. For the past 10 years, she has been an Endovascular Consultant for aortic stent grafts and is currently employed by Terumo Aortic. Anneliese has earned numerous top sales awards, including President’s Clubs, Rookie of the Year, Sales Excellence trips, and more. She has worked with top surgeons from all over the country and has covered many areas of medicine, from General and Vascular Surgery to Electrophysiology and Thoracic Surgery.
Personal Background: Anneliese Kagan Finn is a 43-year-old mother of two children, ages 13 and 7. She was born into a medical family: Her father is an Orthopedic Surgeon and her mother (deceased) received her EdD in Nursing and Educational Psychology. Her mother later published a book on renal disease, which has been translated into over 20 languages.
Anneliese holds a Bachelor of Science in Business from Florida State University. In her free time—aside from spending time with her two children—Anneliese enjoys outdoor activities, such as running, snow skiing, wake boarding, and horseback riding. She loves to travel and enjoys exploring new places and meeting people.
Meet Ashley Andrews, Sales Executive, with Medefy, a benefits navigation app. Medefy is an app to help you connect better with your healthcare. Real humans are on standby to help you make your next healthcare move, whether that’s understanding a bill or offering provider coordination. In the app you’ll be able to find plan documents, see how much you’ve paid into your deductible, or even access your benefits card. With 24/7 high quality, low cost care available, Medefy brings humanization and customer service to offer an empathetic experience with technology.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
More About Our Guest:
Ashley Andrews, Sales Executive
Medefy.comBringing a wealth of experience from her 12 years of working in the brokerage world, Ashley joined Medefy in November 2020. She prides herself on her commitment to helping employers unlock the vast potential of their benefits programs by empowering the people with in them. Ashley’s goal in the employee benefits space is to help normal, everyday people use the benefits they have to get the care that they need. Recognizing that when people easily navigate their care, they can get back to living life.
Ashley is a degreed professional with three bachelor’s degrees from McPherson College and has received numerous awards as a top employee benefits consultant. She loves Lululemon yoga pants, traveling and searching for the world’s best cheese pizza, and her French Bulldog Carl.
Due to a quirk in the Affordable Care Act, lower- and middle-income employees are not able to access critical premium subsidies when the self-only health coverage offered by their employer is deemed affordable by the ACA. This means that even if the cost of family coverage does not qualify as affordable, the employee’s family is not eligible for premium assistance.
On mic is Carol Taylor, State Legislative Chair for the Florida Association of Health Underwriters, to talk about the new proposal to correct this issue, which has become known as the “family glitch”.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
**MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Carol Taylor, REBC
State Legislative Chair
Florida Association of Health Underwriters (FAHU)**
Carol Taylor, REBC, serves as the COO and Compliance Officer with Kirby Employee Benefits, based in Jupiter, Florida. She has been in the insurance industry for over 30 years in various capacities, ranging from insurance accounting, claims auditing, account management, self-funding and compliance.
In July of 2017, Carol stepped into the role of the Florida Association of Health Underwriters (FAHU) State Legislative Chair and serves on their Board of Directors. From July 2013 through June 2017, she served on the National Legislative Council for the National Association of Health Underwriters (NAHU), on various committees and assisted with responses to regulatory releases as well as gathering data on tens of thousands of plans nationwide to show the effects of the Cadillac Tax. She continues to serve on the national level, as a long-standing member of their Compliance Corner Committee and several other committees regarding broker transparency and compensation.
Carol was honored with the Florida AHU Scott Robertson Legislative Excellence Award in August 2019. She was recognized in February 2016 by NAHU for her assistance in legislative issues, particularly for her work on the Cadillac Tax, one of the tax provisions that was included in the ACA, that was repealed. Carol also serves as a national instructor for NAHU certification courses, in addition to developing course materials for their certification and designation courses. In addition, she has written several courses for the FAHU School and is the current Jacksonville AHU President.
Carol is currently working on a Juris Masters’ degree, specializing in healthcare/corporate/risk management compliance. In her spare time, she serves as Secretary on the Northeast Florida Scottish Highland Games & Festival Board of Directors and helps plan their one-day event with attendance in excess of 20,000 annually. She enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, getting wind therapy on her motorcycle, and quilting.
On mic is Christin Kuretich, Strategy Consultant at Milliman, and David Perry, FBMC's own Vice President of Enrollment Strategies, to talk with Rick about the effects of the Long Term Care Crisis. From family member burnout to the stress of paying for expensive care services, the growing need for Long Term Care is a crisis not yet acknowledged by the general public.
With more conversation and change in policy to support caregivers, we can improve the lives of those needing Long Term Care.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Christin Kuretich
Strategy Consultant
Milliman
Christin Kuretich is a strategy & design consultant serving the supplemental benefits market. She has twenty years of marketing and voluntary benefits experience, including account management, product development and strategic selling. Christin works with carriers to design relevant and meaningful insurance products for today's climate. She can help support the product launch cycle at any stage – beginning with consumer research, ideation and design; throughout the development, creation and launch phases; and even post-launch, focusing on sales effectiveness, strategy and messaging based on field and consumer feedback.
Prior to joining Milliman, Christin spent twelve years with Trustmark Benefits – first as an implementation manager, then an account manager working with sales, brokers, enrollment firms and employers on the successful sale and execution of voluntary benefits. She is passionate about the market, and has a personal connection to nearly every product in today’s portfolio, which allows her to understand the customer journey with empathy.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
David Perry
Vice President, Enrollment Strategies at FBMC
FBMCDavid is leading enrollment strategies and coordination efforts of employee benefit communication and engagement, including partnering with benefits consultants to design and engage employee benefits communication and programs.
David has an over 20+ years in employee benefits and his extensive background touches nearly all the functional areas in benefits, including implementation, account management, claims, benefits administration software, enrollment services sales and leadership.
Megan Richardson, Vice President of Consulting at Dynamic Corporate Solutions, is on mic with Rick to talk about the Great Resignation. As a Human Resources consultant, Megan leads the discussion on why employees are leaving their jobs in droves. Her experience and business acumen will make you reconsider what employees are looking for in the market and help you find solutions.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Tracy Cohen, President of Target Print & Mail, is on mic with Rick on Risky Business to discuss how she carried on her mother’s legacy to make Target Print & Mail a national print shop. Her journey to gain confidence and grow her business has inspired us here at FBMC, and we wanted to take a moment to celebrate the amazing women in our city. Listen to Tracy’s story as you celebrate International Women’s History Month with us.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Tracey CohenPresident, Target Print & Mailtargetprintmail.com
I joined Target Print & Mail in 2004. Over the years I have worked in many different capacities – as a Customer Service Rep, with our Customized Course Notes, in Production, in Sales, as a Manager and finally as President in 2009. One of the things I love most about my job is that no day is the same as the one that came before it. Each day we face new challenges and projects, and seeing the creativity that comes from both our clients and our team is a huge thrill.
Bucket List: Going to the Oscars, Traveling to Every Continent But Antarctica, Professional Wine Taster
Favorite Tallahassee Hangout: A good show at Cascades Park
Quote to Live By: “Not all who wander are lost”
Mary O'Conner, MD, is on mic with Rick to talk about how musculoskeletal care delivery can improve with Vori Health. This Telehealth program provides patients with access to services like Surgery Prep and Recovery and Muscle and Joint Pain intervention. A personalized team of experts will work with you every step of the way to find a program that helps you get back on your feet and ready to move. Take a seat and listen in on Mary's introduction to Vori Health and how it can serve your employees.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:Mary I. O'Connor, MD
Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer, Vori Health
Professor Emerita of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo ClinicVoriHealth.comHealthcare Entrepreneur committed to improving the delivery of musculoskeletal care. Award winning Executive Physician Leader with vision and drive to make healthcare better for all. Strong business development profession working in the hospital and health care industry. Skilled in Innovative Value-driven Musculoskeletal Care Direct to Employer Models, Clinical Care Redesign, Medical Devices and Supply Chain Management, Professional Medical Compliance, and Healthcare Management. Committed to creating and supporting high performance teams. National leader on healthcare equity and addressing underserved communities; founder of Movement is Life, a non-profit multi-stakeholder national coalition committed to health equity.
With the frantic race to open enrollment behind us, it’s time to catch your breath and reflect with Risky Benefits.
This week’s episode is dedicated to examining past experiences while they are fresh and using them to transform the future.
Here to help us is our guest Misty Guinn, Director of Customer Advocacy at Benefitfocus, a benefits technology platform that simplifies benefits administration for employers, health plans and brokers.
Misty shares her secret weapon you can use to help make next year’s enrollment season more of a walk in the park.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Misty Guinn
Director of Customer AdvocacyBenefitfocus.com
As Director of Customer Advocacy at Benefitfocus, Misty works closely with the company’s customers and stakeholders to build relationships and experiences that cannot be replicated anywhere else, and designs programs that champion Benefitfocus’ brand, people and culture. In her previous role as director of benefits and wellness at Benefitfocus, Misty worked closely with suppliers, carriers, and brokers to create and manage plan design for employees to mitigate rising benefits costs. Misty is an employee benefits and total wellbeing thought leader and has been quoted in publications such as CNN, CBS News, BenefitsPRO, Human Resource Executive, and Employee Benefit News.
Flume Health’s Chief Customer Officer, Kevin Schlotman, is on mic with Rick and Richard Koontz, FBMC’s Manager of Healthcare Innovation Development, to discuss how Flume Health engineered a new approach to healthcare. Their mission is to capitalize on up-to-date technology that helps clients build their healthcare vision; meanwhile, employees gain access to quality care that’s easy to navigate. Listen and learn more about how Flume Health provides seamless, cost effective solutions for third party administration.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Kevin SchlotmanChief Customer OfficerFlume Health
Chief Customer Officer, Flume Health, Inc. Kevin oversees Flume Health’s Customer Success and Stop-loss Teams. He is a Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) and serves as the organizational subject matter expert on self-funded health insurance benefits, compliance, benefit-cost containment, and healthcare product development. Kevin is a Past Chair of the Society of Professional Benefit Administrators (SPBA) – the preeminent national association of healthcare plan administrators and stop-loss insurers. He continues to serve on the SPBA Stop Loss Task Force, served as the Association Liasion to the NAIC, and consults and contributes to SPBA compliance and educational efforts intended for healthcare administrators and government regulators.
Kevin has twice testified before the Department of Labor's ERISA Advisory Council including on the topic of Health Plan administrative simplification. He's delivered hundreds of educational seminars and webinars to employers about healthcare Plans and regulations, including to CPA’s and their clients, law firms, chambers, and other groups of business owners. Kevin is passionate about improving the healthcare dynamic for his clients and their employees. He is constantly seeking opportunities to help his clients improve healthcare outcomes for their employees and families.
Richard KoontzManager of Healthcare Innovation DevelopmentFBMC
Rich has 20+ years in leading client-facing change management teams in both the Health Care / Benefits and Technology industries. He excels at helping clients design, build and run high-performance employee services while reducing the overall operational costs to the employer.
He also worked as a consultant with both Pharmaceutical companies and medical practices on process innovations and efficiencies. From this experience, he understands the information flows and interconnected processes across the Health Care / Benefit ‘Value Chain’.
Most recently Rich has taken this industry knowledge and worked as Change Management consultant for Benefit Companies serving the Municipal, K-12 and Private sector, focusing on optimizing benefit costs for the client while improving services and lowering out-of-pocket costs for employees.
Care is in the details with WellVia teleheath. Experience a comprehensive telemedicine experience with the flexibility and freedom to get the care you need, when you need it. Chief Operating Officer Mark Woolery from WellVia is on mic to talk about the unique solutions offered by WellVia and how they have helped push innovation and exceptional customer service in the telehealth arena.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Mark Woolery
Chief Operating Officer at WellVia SolutionsWellVia.com
Mr. Woolery earned his bachelor of administration in marketing and finance from Mississippi State University and his master of business administration from Southern Methodist University’s Cox School of Business.
As chief operating officer for WellVia , Mr. Woolery brings extensive experience as a healthcare executive to WellVia. Prior to joining WellVia, Mr. Woolery owned and operated a third-party administrator for supplemental benefits solely servicing approximately 500,000 lives. His attention to detail and strong understanding of plan design allows for WellVia to build customized and creative solutions, which produce unparalleled results within the industry. A lifelong servant-leader, fueled with a client-centric approach, Mr. Woolery takes great pride in ensuring that WellVia’s clients’ needs are not only met but exceeded.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Join us as we talk employee recruitment and retention with Colene Rogers, talent management expert and author of Retention: Key Mindsets that Retain Top Talent.
As a human capital consultant, Colene dispenses practical, proven, easy-to-implement practices and strategies to help you improve employee satisfaction which leads to higher productivity, lower turnover and a stronger bottom line!
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Colene Rogers
The Talent Keeper
Colene Rogers is a speaker, executive coach and talent management expert with over 20 years’ experience in human resources and consulting. During this time, she has helped organizations grow and develop their most important asset: people. As a Senior Certified HR Professional, specializing in talent acquisition and management, Colene helps organizations to effectively recruit and manage top talent, increase employee engagement, improve critical communication and limit the high cost of turnover.
Colene identifies turnover as not just an issue, but “the issue” facing all organizations. For how well you retain your employees influences every other facet of your business. Colene’s fresh take on this most important topic has made her a highly sought-after keynote speaker and consultant. Her new book, Retention: Key Mindsets that Retain Top Talent, released in May 2020 and is a great leadership training tool.
Colene is a graduate of the University of Central Florida with degrees in Organizational Communication and Public Speaking. She has worked for Walt Disney World Entertainment, Hyatt Hotel Sales, and as an HR professional in nonprofit, private and state government.
Colene is a professional speaker of the National Speakers Association; a certified speaker, trainer, and coach with the John Maxwell Team; a certified trainer for Vital Smarts Crucial Conversations; a senior certified HR professional (SHRM-SCP) and a certified professional in human resources (PHR).
Find out more at www.colenerogers.com.
It is not enough anymore to be the usual broker. As a service driven company, FBMC believes in the importance of an agile, knowledgeable broker to help clients get what they need. Jim Filmont, Vice President of Sales at FBMC, is on mic this week to talk more about the difference between business as usual for a basic broker, and the kind of brokerage that brings much needed solutions.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Jim Filmont
National Vice President of SalesFBMC.com
Jim Filmont is a highly respected sales executive whose 28 years in the financial and insurance markets have been spent building business success for companies such as Willis (now Willis Towers Watson), Raymond James, AON, Reliance Standard Life, and now FBMC.
Jim opened the Jacksonville, Florida, office for Willis in 2003 with nothing and grew the business to 23 companies of health and welfare clients, representing 55,000 employees and aggregate premium and premium equivalents of $400 million. Jim’s special abilities in building and maintaining relationships catapulted his success and continues to drive his efforts, especially his support of local charitable causes and community efforts.
Jim joined FBMC in September 2020 as a mentor to the Consultants. Jim took over the National Vice President of Sales role in April 2021 and continues to mentor Consultants, while driving strategy and innovation for FBMC.
Jim earned his B.A. from University of Delaware in 1991. In his off time, Jim enjoys surfing, boating, and spending time with family.
Jason Hammersla, Vice President of Communications at American Benefits Counsel, is on mic to talk about the “Silver Linings Pandemic Playbook”. The playbook is a collection of vignettes and interviews with a dozen large US companies on the strategies they deployed to take care of their employees in one of the most unprecedented times, the COVID-19 pandemic.
Not only will these stories inspire you, but you'll also learn about healthcare trends that are taking off, and how the American Benefits Counsel advocates for straight-forward benefits and administrative laws.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Jason Hammersla
Vice President, CommunicationsAmerican Benefits CouncilJason Hammersla is the vice president of communications for the American Benefits Council. Jason directs the American Benefits Council's communications strategy and serves as the liaison for media inquiries. He also leads the Council’s 50th Anniversary celebration and marketing activities.
Since joining the Council as a public relations associate in 1999, Jason has held a variety of roles in the communications department, maintaining primary responsibility for internal and external communications such as the Council's Benefits Byte membership newsletter and media releases on the full range of Council issues. He also has responsibility for the Council’s webinar production, website, social media streams and desktop publishing.
Jason earned his bachelor's degree in psychology after four years at the University of Rochester. He has co-written a song for Norah Jones, written jokes for Steve Martin and now is only waiting to catch a touchdown pass from Peyton Manning.
David Perry has worked in carrier claims, workers compensation, account management, enrollment and more. All these experiences have helped him map out the best life cycle for enrolling and educating employees about their benefits. David is on mic to provide you with the latest ideas and tools to help employees find what they need to feel taken care of during Benefits Enrollment.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
David Perry
Vice President, Enrollment Strategies at FBMC
David is leading enrollment strategies and coordination efforts of employee benefit communication and engagement, including partnering with benefits consultants to design and engage employee benefits communication and programs.
David has an over 20+ years in employee benefits and his extensive background touches nearly all the functional areas in benefits, including implementation, account management, claims, benefits administration software, enrollment services sales and leadership.
Mental health and wellness is an important aspect of our health. From employees to even the most decorated and talented athletes, it is important to prioritize the care you need in order to perform your best.
Dr. Desreen Dudley, Psy.D., behavioral health quality consultant, and practicing clinical psychologist, shared that 50% of millennial employees, now the largest generational group in the workforce, want and expect mental health coverage and benefits.
For tips on mental wellness improvements, trends, and mental health benefits with Teladoc Health, give this episode a listen.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
**MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Dr. Desreen N. Dudley, Psy.D.Teladoc Senior Behavioral Health Quality Consultant
Teladoc.com**
Dr. Desreen N. Dudley, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 10 years of experience treating individuals diagnosed with serious mental illness. She is a full-time clinical psychologist treating adults in a community healthcare outpatient setting. She was hired by Teladoc Health in 2016 as a behavioral health quality consultant, and in her capacity, she serves as a mental health provider of therapeutic services to members using the platform as well as a member of the quality management team.
The passion and industry expertise from each of our consultants is an important part of what makes FBMC unique. On mic are two of our Employee Benefits Consultants: Shands Bussey and Kevin McCarthy. Listen in as Shands and Kevin discuss their work in the insurance industry and how it has shaped their perspective on what delivering quality service looks like.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS:
Kevin McCarthy, Employee Benefits Consultant
FBMC.comKevin McCarthy brings 21 years of experience in working with health and voluntary employee benefits in Texas schools. Kevin has been a professional songwriter, musician and actors in Austin since 1987.
After graduating from the University of Texas he started as a high school AP/IB Eco and Gov teacher at Anderson HS in Austin, Texas.
For the last 22 years he has helped Texas schools with their voluntary supplemental benefits. His experience as a teacher continues to inform his work as a consultant for his clients.
Shands Bussey, Employee Benefits Consultant
FBMC.comShands brings 4 years of human capital management experience with a focus on employee benefit solutions to FBMC’s clients. He adds a proven track record of assisting public and private entities streamline, maintain, and grow their Health & Benefits offerings. His focus is on delivering high performance healthcare benefits and service by engaging and empowering the healthcare consumer.
Clever RX is a discount prescription program that negotiates rates with pharmacies, drug manufacturers, and pharmaceutical benefit management companies to provide the lowest prices available. No sign up, no cost, no fee, all in an effort to make healthcare more affordable. Listen to Brett Cunningham, Co-Founder and Chief of Growth Officer at Clever RX, talk more about how this program works.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Brett CunninghamChief Growth Officer, Clever RX
cleverrx.comI help benefit consultants and the healthcare community drive down prescription drug costs through our FREE app and tools.
CLEVER RX is a game changer. We built tools for the Healthcare Community to help deprived families access reasonably priced prescription medication. For years this has been a major issue due to high deductibles, high co-pays, and the high cost of insurance. Finally, Clever RX is here. By using your Clever RX app (or discount card), you will save up to 80% on your prescription medication and frequently save more than your current co-pay. Simply put, use Clever RX and start to save money.
Now that is not only clever, it is Clever RX.
Show Employees You C.A.R.E.When it comes to maximizing employee wellbeing and minimizing turnover consider this, “No trash, no chipped paint, and all the horses go up and down.” This adage from Walt Disney is at the heart of today’s Risky Benefits episode. Listen as Texas Tech Professors Dr. Theodore Waldron and Jim Wetherbe along with FBMC Benefits Consultant Kevin McCarthy discuss how employers can empower employees by providing a dynamic and values driven work environment. This ensures a rewarding experience for employees and a positive as well as productive step towards company-wide success.
For an in-depth look at C.A.R.E. and how to help your employees, check out this article by Dr. Theodore Waldron and Jim Wetherbe: "How To Care for Your Team During a Crisis".
Interested in reading more by Dr. Theodore Waldron and Jim Wetherbe, take a look at "Ensure That Your Customer Relationships Outlast Coronavirus".
MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS:
James WetherbeRichard Schulze Distinguished Professor, Texas Tech University
www.ttu.eduPh.D. in Management Information Systems, Organizational Behavior, and Computer Science with over 40 years experience in academia and industry. Experience includes professorial and administrative positions in higher education including the Universities of Minnesota, Memphis, Houston, and Texas Tech; and management positions with computing, energy, and consulting companies. Rated as one of the top 12 consultants and lecturers on MIS by Information Week, also ranked as one of the 20 most influential scholars in the field. Co-recipient of the first MIS Quarterly Distinguished Scholar Award, author or co-author of 40 books (including multiple editions) and widely published in top journals with over 15,000 citations. Brought in over $20 million in funded research during academic career. Served on the Board of several major corporations including Best Buy, CIBER, SitePro and Sandia Motorsports. Honored as Distinguished alumnus of Texas Tech and New Mexico State Universities and in the Hall of Fame of New Mexico State University.
Theodore L. WaldronAssociate Professior of Sustainable Strategy & Entrepreneurship in the Area of Management at Texas Tech University's Rawls College of Businesswww.ttu.eduTheodore L. Waldron (Ted) is an Associate Professor of Sustainable Strategy and Entrepreneurship in the Area of Management at Texas Tech University’s Rawls College of Business. He earned his B.S. and M.B.A. from Villanova University and his Ph.D. from The University of Georgia. In addition to his academic career, Ted has worked in hospital administration and management consulting.
Kevin McCarthyEmployee Benefits Consultant at FBMCFBMC.com
Theodore L. Waldron (Ted) is an Associate Professor of Sustainable Strategy and Entrepreneurship in the Area of Management at Texas Tech University’s Rawls College of Business. He earned his B.S. and M.B.A. from Villanova University and his Ph.D. from The University of Georgia. In addition to his academic career, Ted has worked in hospital administration and management consulting.
Unsure of whether to mandate employee vaccinations? Chad Sorenson, President of HR Florida, is on Risky Benefits to discuss all the HR related questions and possibilities that come up when considering COVID-19 vaccination mandates in the workplace.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Chad Sorenson
President
hrflorida.org
Chad Sorenson is the President of Adaptive HR Solutions and has over 25 years of diverse business, communications and human resource experience.
He works with companies throughout the Southeast U.S. that range from 5 to 1,200 employees and focuses on leadership development, manager training, employee performance management and employer compliance in industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, construction trades, and professional services organizations. Chad also works with trade associations providing HR support to member companies. Prior to founding Adaptive HR Solutions in 2008, Chad was Vice President, Director and Manager of Human Resources for several companies in the Jacksonville area.
Chad serves as the 2021-2022 President of the HR Florida State Council which represents over 16,000 HR professional across Florida as the state affiliate of the Society for Human Resource Management. He was also the President of SHRM Jacksonville in 2015 and 2016. He is certified as a SHRM-Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) and a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR). Chad regularly speaks to other SHRM Chapters, business associations, and companies across the region on topics such as leadership development and employee engagement.
In addition to giving back to the HR field, Chad is actively involved in his church and has been a volunteer leader with Boy Scouts for over 12 years. He is an Eagle Scout and a graduate of Morningside College in Sioux City, Iowa. The keys to his success are Devotion to God, Dedication to Family, Continuous Service, Lifetime Learning, and Always Remembering to Laugh.
To listen and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
The landscape of voluntary benefits has changed recently because of COVID-19. Employers and employees are looking for products and coverage that keeps up with the quickly changing times. Nick Rockwell, President of Eastbridge Consulting Group, Inc., is on mic with Rick to talk about the voluntary benefit trends and changes that insurance carriers are making due to COVID-19.
To listen and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Nick Rockwell
President
Nick has over 18 years of broad business experience in varying roles from sales, distribution, administration and marketing strategy development to management and training. During his four years at Eastbridge, Nick has led and delivered consulting projects for clients across insurance, non-insurance, third-party administration and technology-platform segments.
Prior to joining Eastbridge in 2016, Nick launched and led LifeLock into the voluntary benefits market, achieving nearly 400% sales growth over a two-year period. Because of his experience building a voluntary benefits business and having advised dozens of carriers on strategic matters, Nick has developed a reputation as a go-to resource for leaders in the voluntary market. He is a frequent speaker at industry events and webinars and also co-authors Eastbridge's monthly BenefitsPro column.
As Eastbridge's President, Nick continues the Company's tradition of delivering strategic consulting services to the voluntary industry, while helping to shape the Company's future roadmap.
Nick holds degrees from the University of Arizona in Communications and Business. He lives in Phoenix, Arizona with his wife and two sons.
Our guest Lydia Zeller, President and CEO of Kiio, is on mic to talk about the digital therapeutic solutions offered by Kiio. This is a non-clinical solution that helps employees get immediate and appropriate musculoskeletal care.
Available through your smart device, Kiio offers exercises, tips, encouragement, and educational materials on how to manage and improve your musculoskeletal wellbeing.
This app meets people where they are and in whatever way works best.
To listen and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Lydia Zeller
President and CEOKiio.com
Lydia has a track record of driving innovation in musculoskeletal (MSK care) and meaningful results. One of the company’s first employees, Lydia has been involved in every facet of Kiio product and business development. As VP of Strategy, she conceived of and spearheaded the company’s efforts to bring Kiio’s flagship digital therapeutic product to market. She landed and managed the company’s first health plan partnerships, and she initiated the independent clinical and financial outcomes studies that have proven Kiio significantly improves pain, function and quality of life while reducing opioid prescriptions, aggressive treatments and total health plan spend.
Lydia brings a vision of combining the best in technology with evidenced-based medicine to Kiio’s mission – to be the easiest, most effective – and most cost-effective – way for employers, payers, and individuals to reduce the physical, emotional and financial burden of MSK pain. Her passion for bringing convenient, member-centric care to more people is evident. Kiio’s quick-start solution is the only one that doesn’t require waiting for equipment, scheduling a clinical consultation, or mastering the learning curve of trackers and sensors.
Lydia’s high energy and commitment to Kiio and the company’s customers is evident to all who know her. Her high-integrity approach to partnerships with Kiio’s stakeholders and employees, coupled with her extensive finance, operations, and product experience, give Kiio an edge in delivering personalized care that’s convenient and effective.
To listen and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Marty Traynor, retired Senior Vice President of Voluntary Benefits at Mutual of Omaha, is on mic to discuss the current and past landscape of employee benefits. With over 40 years of experience in the insurance industry, Marty shares his expert insights into how engagement with benefits for both employees and employers has changed especially with the new concerns brought on by the pandemic. Listen in as Marty shares how you can maximize benefits in this new age.
To listen and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Marty Traynor
Retired Senior Vice President of Voluntary Benefits at Mutual of Omaha
Marty Traynor is retired Senior Vice President of Voluntary Benefits at Mutual of Omaha. Marty has worked in the insurance industry for over 50 years. His responsibilities have covered a broad range of areas including product and service development, voluntary strategy, enrollment methods, and guiding employees to make good benefit-related decisions. He is a member of the Worksite Marketing Hall of Fame, among other honors. He has written a monthly column for BenefitsPRO for over 15 years.
Brand Newland, CEO and co-founder of Goldfinch Health, and Rich Koontz, healthcare innovation manager at FBMC, are on mic to discuss the ways a coordinated approach to surgery and post-op recovery result in better patient care, less time away from work, and overall savings.
Make the patient the most important person in the OR when you invest in better patient outcomes.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Brand Newland, PharmD, MBA
CEO and Co-founderGoldfinchHealth.com
Brand has over 15 years of experience in bringing new healthcare solutions to payers, employers, healthcare providers, and patients. Brand joined OutcomesMTM, a pharmacy Medication Therapy Management company, as the firm’s fourth employee. He served OutcomesMTM in business development and operations leadership roles, seeing the company through rapid growth and eventually its acquisition by Cardinal Health in 2015.
Inspired by personal experiences with the pitfalls of surgery and a lack of proactive solutions to the Opioid Crisis, Brand co-founded Goldfinch Health in 2018. Goldfinch Health optimizes the surgery and recovery experience for patients in virtually any surgery type, saving companies and patients time, money, and addiction.
Brand received a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Iowa and holds a certification in pain management. He has also completed an MBA at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
To listen and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Pharmacy benefits are the most widely utilized benefits in the marketplace with 21 cents of every dollar spent funding it. Today on Risky Benefits, we have guest Jeffery Jones, development representative of RxBenefits, and Richard Koontz, FBMC healthcare innovation manager, on mic to talk about how to control pharmaceutical costs through transparency and accountability. When you can finally see the data, actively measure it, and improve your outcome, then you’ll be able to ensure your company has the best possible terms for pharmacy benefits.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Jeffery Jones
Business Development RepresentativeRxBenefits.comAs a Business Development Representative for RxBenefits, Jeffery partners with Employee Benefit Consultants in Georgia and northern Florida to optimize and provide actionable solutions to reduce cost and control pharmacy trend for self-funded employers. He works with cross functional internal teams to effectively deliver superior service to clients as a key differentiator for consultants to maintain and grow their book of business.
Jeffery has more than 17 years of experience in the healthcare and pharmacy benefit industries. He served at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama for more than 13 years, managing in the Finance division. His background with medical and pharmacy pricing and contracting provides valuable insight when navigating the benefit landscape.
Jeffery joined RxBenefits in 2017 as a Strategic Pharmacy Analyst before being promoted to Business Development Representative.
To listen and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
We believe in building partnerships and relationships that bring provable quality and innovation to your business. On mic this week is Nick Ford, employee benefits consultant of FBMC, and Andrew Binstein of Paycor. Paycor helps businesses with their HR needs by bringing technology and their HR expertise to every client. Paycor empowers businesses to focus on their goals and less on their daily administrative tasks.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Andrew Binstein
Major Market Sales ExecutivePaycor.com
Andrew is a sales leader for Paycor in the southeast market. He partners with Health Brokers, HR, Finance, and business leaders to help them achieve their vision of sustainable growth for their organization by providing the technology and education needed to accomplish their goals. Paycor’s scalable HCM (human capital management) solutions are designed to facilitate revenue growth and employee engagement, reduce compliance risk, and decrease costs caused by the lack of integration and inability to analyze imperative data. In partnership with his clients, he helps design a pathway to unite all aspects of the employee lifecycle into one platform. Paycor’s cutting-edge software is backed by an award winning service model, giving personalized service to each of their clients.
*If you would like to learn more about Paycor, visit paycor.com or contact me at (484) 678-5316 or abinstein@paycor.com.
After the onset of the pandemic, one in three Americans identified themselves as a caregiver, which is up from the average 40 million people in years previous. With that in mind, Larry Nisenson, senior vice president and chief commercial growth officer of Genworth, is on mic with Rick to talk about how employers can support caregivers in the workforce with comprehensive benefits and flexible support.
To listen and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Chris Jamail knows about financial wellness as the partner and current chief marketing officer for Trusted Capital Group (TCG). Listen in as Chris and Rick discuss the importance of good financial investments and habits. MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Chris J. JamailChief Marketing Officer
Trusted Capital Group
Chris Jamail, CFP® is the Chief Marketing Officer at TCG where he is responsible for strategic business development, managing company-wide marketing efforts, and supporting investment advisor strategy. On a mission to grow the TCG ecosystem, he is working to improve the financial situation for all clients and creating a company of enduring value.
Prior to taking on this role at TCG, Chris gained experience in working with clients and managing investment assets beginning in 2002 as a financial advisor at TCG. Throughout his career he has increased his focus on investment management and financial planning moving to an investment advisor role in 2004 with TCG Advisors, and then later named Chief Investment Officer. In these former roles, he operated as head of the investment committee, oversaw a team of professionals with responsibilities such as managing and monitoring investment activity, and directing the investment strategy for the firm’s clients.
Chris graduated from Texas A&M University in 2002 with a BBA degree in Marketing and earned the Certified Financial Planner™ designation in 2010. Chris Jamail is a Partner in TCG Group Holdings, LLP.
To listen and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Chad Sorenson, president of HR Florida, and Rick are on mic to discuss the ramifications of a COVID-19 vaccine in the workplace. Business owners can learn more about legal statutes, the rights of employees, and your rights as a business owner when it comes to whether or not to mandate vaccination for COVID-19 in the workplace.
On mic are Rich Koontz, FBMC manager of healthcare innovation, and David Joza, FBMC employee benefits consultant, to talk about Self Funded Plans. It can often be a challenge for employers to find great, affordable benefits to offer employees, but with a self funded plan you can control costs directly with vendors, minimize claims risk, and attain high quality healthcare services. Self Funded plans are all about flexibility and building better ways to benefit for your business and your employees.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS:
Rich Koontz
Manager of Healthcare Innovation
FBMC.com
Rich is responsible for innovation programs for FBMC’s health benefit clients and is a certified Health Rosetta advisor. Rich has experience implementing many types of cost management programs. He has more than 25 years of benefits, innovation, change management, supply chain cost transformation, and systems implementation experience in the health care and technology industries. Rich has worked in leadership and consulting roles across the entire health care supply chain. He also has a Strategic Planning and Process Engineering background from his work at Kearney and has completed several Leadership & Innovation programs at MIT. Rich is also one of the first 150 brokers in the U.S. to be vetted and certified by the Health Rosetta Program, a national organization of industry experts committed to accelerating cost transparency and transformation across the Health Benefits supply chain.
David Joza
Employee Benefits Consultant
FBMC.com
Davidprovides 15 years of public and private sector experience in all aspects of employee benefits including self-funded medical plans. David understands our client needs through his years serving on their side of the desk in public and private organizations. Working with trustees and employees directly helps him to develop benefit strategies through a “data-informed” approach while maintaining focus on the impact to budgets, plan members, and constituents.
To listen and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Paul Malley, president of Aging with Dignity, is on mic with Rick to discuss the Five Wishes Advance Directive program. The Five Wishes program helps you receive the best in care for your body, mind, and soul with a legal document that guides your health should you be unable to make those decisions yourself. Listen and learn more on how Five Wishes makes advance health directives more approachable.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS:
Paul MalleyPresident
agingwithdignity.org
Paul Malley is president of Aging with Dignity, a position to which he was named in 2002. He previously served as the organization’s communications director since 1998. With nearly 20 years of experience in the field of aging and advance care planning, Paul is a national expert, frequent speaker, and advocate for quality and dignified care at the end of life. He served on the Florida delegation for the White House Conference on Aging, and is a member of the national Coalition to Transform Advanced Care. Paul holds a Master of Arts degree in Communications from Florida State University.
To listen and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Listen to James Klein, president of the American Benefits Counsel, and our host Rick as they discuss the current political climate in America and how that affects the Affordable Care Act and other employee benefits policies.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS:
James A. Klein
President
americanbenefitscouncil.org
Jim Klein is president of the American Benefits Council. He joined the Council in 1988 as Deputy Executive Director and has served as Executive Director/President since 1992. Previously, Jim was manager of pension and health care policy for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and, before that, practiced law for a Washington, D.C. firm specializing in employee benefits. He also worked as a Legislative Assistant for a member of Congress.
Jim serves on the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plan’s Government Liaison Committee and was the recipient of the 2018 Public Service Award from that organization. He is a fellow of the American College of Employee Benefits Counsel and a member of the editorial advisory board of Benefits Quarterly. In the global benefits arena, Jim serves as a private sector advisor to the Working Party on Private Pensions of the Paris-based Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD); and the Council is actively engaged with several international organizations representing the interests of U.S.-based companies operating outside the United States. Jim graduated with a degree in bioethics from Tufts University and a law degree from the George Washington University School of Law.
To listen and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Attention small businesses in North Florida: Rogers Benefit Group is now providing insurance for small businesses with Simply Blue. This is a small group HMO plan partnered with Florida Blue that provides affordable healthcare for employees and employers alike. Listen to Rick and Scotty Fjelstad, regional manager of Rogers Benefit Group, discuss eligibility and details for the plan.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Scott Fjelstad
Regional Manager, Rogers Benefit Grouprogersbenefit.comScott Fjelstad is a Regional Manager at Rogers Benefit Group with 35 years of experience working alongside independent agents and the executive teams of leading insurance companies. Scott specializes in helping people buy health care intelligently and cost efficiently in their unique marketplace. Scott realizes that effective plan designs, tax efficiency and employee communication is key for sustainable solutions. Scott serves with several local and federal healthcare influencers and is inspired daily by the Sales and Support Team at RBG Jacksonville and their clients.To listen and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Nick Bellanca and Darren Rowe from Cancer Guardian are on mic to explain genomics and how genetic testing and a dedicated support team make a big impact in early cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. Listen, and learn more about how Cancer Guardian works and the current state of cancer support and treatment in a COVID-19 environment.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS:
Darren Rowe
Chief Innovation Officer
wamberggenomic.com
A co-founder and former CEO of the UK’s largest independent cancer navigation company, Darren is WGA’s Chief Innovation Officer, with leadership responsibility for strategic innovation and program design. Darren has a career background in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, and has held several leadership roles within companies specializing in the development of disruptive and innovative genomic technologies for personalized cancer treatments.
Leading Champions Oncology’s European subsidiary businesses, Darren helped them achieve a market cap of $180m from a zero base. Darren is a former board member of Bowel Cancer UK and current board member of UK-based health technology company Trustedoctor.
Whilst in the UK, Darren was a regular guest on the BBC, providing commentary on consumer-led healthcare issues. Darren studied Cognitive Behavioral Science at Leicester University in England and Executive Leadership and Organizational Innovation at Cornell Business School.
In his spare time, Darren mentors small businesses and designs programs to help individuals lead happier and more meaningful lives.
Darren and his family recently relocated to the USA from London, UK.
Nick Bellanca
EVP, Group Benefits
wamberggenomic.com
Nick leads the growth and expansion of WGA’s group benefit division, focusing in on brokers, employers, carrier partners, associations, and emerging distribution channels.
Prior to joining WGA, Nick was a top, national producer for a Fortune 500 insurance carrier for over 12 years. His team partners closely with consultants, enrollment firms, benefits administration providers, and employers on the development and delivery of new and innovative employee benefit programs.
Nick has been featured by Leader’s Edge magazine, and a guest speaker at Biocom, CIAB, OCEBC, Employee Benefits Forum & Expo, Workplace Benefits Renaissance and other industry events on the topic of benefits innovation. He is passionate about helping people access life changing programs that can enhance their longevity and the time they have with their family and loved ones.
Nick holds a B.A. in Accounting from the University of San Diego and lives in Encinitas, CA with his wife, 2 children, and 2 boxer dogs.
To listen and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Today’s topic is for small to mid size business owners on how you can get the most out of the relationship with your CPA. Andrew Gay, a CPA from Grimsely and Company, is our guest this week to walk you through what questions you should be asking your CPA, understanding cash flow projections, and how to tell whether your business has managed well through the COVID-19 pandemic.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Andrew Gay, CPA, Grimsley & Company, CPA's, P.A. • www.grimsleycpa.com
Andrew is responsible for the firm’s domestic and international individual and entity tax practices. Andrew specializes in helping clients with tax compliance and consulting issues. He has worked closely with a variety of business entity types and has assisted business owners with related tax matters. In addition to tax and business consulting, Andrew has extensive experience in campaign finance compliance reporting with the State of Florida Division of Elections. Andrew prides himself with helping change his clients financial picture for the better.
Andrew is a Certified Public Accountant , has his Master’s in Business Administration and his bachelor’s degree from Florida State University. Current civic obligations include serving on the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants Council, Treasurer and Board Member of the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce, Robert F. Munroe Board of Directors, and Leon County Housing Finance Authority Board of Directors.
Andrew is married with two daughters and resides in Tallahassee, FL. Outside of the office, Andrew enjoys spending time with his family, hunting and the outdoors, traveling, and FSU Football.
Captives: An Innovative Group Insurance Solution
If you're interested in innovative insurance solutions, this is the podcast for you! Captive insurance is a form of group, self-funded insurance that allows for sustainable risk and cost control.
Listen to FBMC’s Kiera Hanselman, employee benefits consultant, Lee Martin, vice president of sales, and our host Rick discuss all the basics about captives including: why an employer would want to participate in a captive strategy, how you can leverage better cost savings, and much more.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Kiera Hanselman, CEBS, Employee Benefits Consultant •khanselman@fbmc.com
Named as one of 2017’s Most Influential Women in Employee Advising by Employee Benefit Advisor publication, Kiera takes an innovative approach to benefit advising that challenges the status quo. Kiera is a Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) and focuses on delivering transparent, high performance healthcare benefits for her clients.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Lee Martin, RHU, REBC, Vice President, Sales • lmartin@fbmc.com
Lee has over 15 years of experience in Employee Benefits Consulting. Having worked as a state insurance regulator, a consultant for one of the largest brokers in the world, and most recently as the subject matter expert, lobbyist, and instructor for the largest agent trade association in Florida. Lee is proficient in all funding mechanisms, strategic processes for benchmarking, controlling healthcare costs, and creating value-based plan designs. Lee specializes in the design and implementation of innovative concepts for group insurance and benefit program management.
To listen and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
RX Benefits That Save
The Pharmacy Benefits Management (PBM) market is complex and often times leaves you with an oversized bill. Enter Scripta Insights Inc., and their IT solution software that finds savings opportunities in every pharmaceutical transaction that even your doctor is unaware of. Rick and Eric Levin, chief executive officer of Scripta Insights Inc., are on mic this week so listen and learn about ways to save.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Eric Levin, CEO • ScriptaInsights.com
Eric Levin is a seasoned executive and serial entrepreneur. He has been involved in more than 32 mergers and acquisitions and helped to grow several companies from startup through large-scale global success. Eric has turned his energy and expertise toward solving the U.S.’s complex and expensive drug price system with Scripta Insights Inc., as their current CEO.
Did you know that life insurance is a key part of your financial plan? Listen in as our host Rick and Ryan Caldwell, Vice President of National Accounts at Allstate, discuss Life Insurance and how to find which life insurance plan fits your current stage of life. Learn about the different types of life insurance with key industry terms defined to help you shop smart.
MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Ryan is Vice President, National Accounts for the Florida Market with Allstate Benefits. Ryan’s primary focus is to drive the market development efforts with Allstate Benefit’s national brokerage partners in Florida by designing voluntary benefits solutions for the broker’s client companies. Ryan has a well-established voluntary benefits expertise with over 9 years in the business. Ryan came to Allstate Benefits from the position of Voluntary Benefits Specialist at Unum with a concentration in the National Client Group vertical. Ryan has a B.S. in Business Marketing and Hospitality Management from Florida State University and is currently located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Ryan Caldwell
Vice President, National Accounts
Website: Allstate.com
Email: Ryan.Caldwell@allstate.com
Phone: 850-819-6755
To listen and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Since the onset of COVID-19, life has changed dramatically in America. This is especially true for frontline workers in the healthcare industry who have to worry for themselves, their families, and patients. Healthcare workers Liz, a nursing director, and Eunice, an employee health nurse, of Jackson Health System (JHS) are on mic to talk about what working and caring for patients has been like throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and how JHS has altered practices to meet these new needs.
To listen and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Laura Putnam, CEO and founder of Motion Infusion, is on mic to remind us about wellness. The mismatch in talking about work life balance and actually having one is especially large in the U.S. Companies often overlook operational norms that make it harder for employees to partake in healthy choices. Meanwhile, individuals must take personal responsibility to be healthy with little time and space to do so.
It's time to rewrite the script from "take personal responsibility" to "let's take collective action." As Laura says, “We are creatures of culture.” Listen as Rick and Laura unpack the current health culture and explain the nudges and cues we all need to create a healthy individual, team, and community.
To listen and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
From a basement office to a 5,000 square foot headquarters, Adam Russo knows how to affect change. Co-Founder and CEO of The Phia Group LLC., Adam’s company helps design self funded plans. As our guest on Risky Benefits, Adam will talk about consumer trends and their affects on the insurance and healthcare industry. Learn not only what is happening in the industry, but also how you can meaningfully change the way people access care, what to think about when creating an insurance plan design, and quality solutions that can ultimately drive down cost.
To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Season 1 : Episode 16Innovative and insightful, Felina Martin, executive director of the Institute for Nonprofit Innovation and Excellence (INIE), is our guest on Risky Benefits this week. Press play and listen to Rick and Felina talk about the collaborative opportunities INIE manages for nonprofits like endorsed employee benefit services, nonprofit mixers for board recruitment, and so much more.
To listen and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
The ins and outs of medical transport have changed and Tony Lodovico, Senior Vice President, , B2B Sales, of MASA Medical Transportation Solutions, is on to explain how emergency medical transport can be affordable while also providing great coverage.
Andrea Messina from the Florida School Board Association will be our guest this episode to talk about what a safe school reentry might look like this fall.
Recently featured on Forbes for his reputation as a healthcare industry disrupter, Lester Morales is on Risky Benefits to talk more about his journey to becoming the CEO and founder of Next Impact LLC., and some tips to start saving on healthcare costs for your business.
Industry leader and former CEO of Aetna, Mark Bertolini is on mic to talk about how far healthcare has come and where it’s going. A refreshing perspective on what matters most in healthcare, the people. The new normal cares about what the consumer needs in order to live their best life, not just repair or replace things that have broken.
Recorded via video conference during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Greg Hawks from the Hawks Agency joins Risky Benefits to discuss ways you can virtually help create a positive and productive work environment.
https://www.hawksagency.com/
*Recorded via video conference in Florida during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Returning to the workplace is a scary topic for many as COVID-19 is still present with no vaccine or cure in sight. This week on Risky Benefits, we’ll be discussing what it means to our CEO David Faulkenberry and FBMC Board of Directors Member David Essary to return to the workplace.
Recorded via video conference under the Florida shelter-in-place order during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Risky Benefits guest, Greg Kitchens of Artia Solutions, is here this week to discuss Medicaid. This medical benefit program is an inexpensive option for those that have lost their job or a considerable amount of income. In case you’re wondering what exactly Medicaid is, who it is for, and how to sign up, take a moment and listen to these experts give you all the information you need to know.
https://www.artiasolutions.com/
Recorded via video conference under the Florida shelter-in-place order during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Recorded via video conference under the Florida shelter-in-place order during the COVID 19 pandemic.No one was prepared for a national emergency, but we here at FBMC want to arm you with the best information so you can make the best choices. If you’re in a bind and need to dip into your 401(k) or the market volatility is worrying you, then click "Play" on, “To Spend or To Save, That Is the Question,” for all the help you’ll need.
Recorded via video conference under the Florida shelter-in-place order during the COVID 19 pandemic.With furloughed and laid off employees in mind, Healthcare2U in partnership with Zevo Benefits created a new healthcare program that offers affordable and easy access to primary care for you and your family.
Recorded via video conference under the Florida shelter-in-place order during the COVID 19 pandemic.This episode will discuss the future of Open Enrollment in a COVID-19 environment. FBMC has brought in three experts in the enrollment field to talk more about how virtual enrollment will work, strategies to accomplish it, and the ways to protect employee privacy.
Recorded via video conference under the Florida shelter-in-place order during the COVID 19 pandemic.
Virtually safeguard your business and employees with FBMC’s Chief Regulatory Officer, Patrick Flemming Esq. Find out about what kind of cyber threats can affect your business and ways to protect yourself and your employees against them.
In this special extra episode, host Rick Farris and guest Monique Akanbi, FBMC HR Manager, discuss some of the ways employers can respond to the current health situation. This podcast delivers tips and resources for learning how you can help protect yourself, your employees, and your business.
A breakdown of basic healthcare terms and concepts for employees and employers alike with guest, Vickie Whaley, Vice President of Service for FBMC Benefits Management, Inc. In this episode we define and discuss the rising cost of healthcare, common healthcare terms, common plan types, funding models and employee engagement.