Talking Benefits: Recent Episodes
IFEBP
International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans benefits pros Julie Stich, Justin Held and Anne Patterson dive into retirement, health care, hot trends, or whatever else the benefits industry throws at them.
We're taking a look at the evolution of fertility benefits over the last decade from specialized offerings to mainstream components of employee benefits packages.The Employee Benefits Survey 2026 Survey Report can assist your organization in examining and structuring your benefits to meet business objectives and employee demands, and stay competitive in the hiring market. Plus, it's free for International Foundation members! Download the report here: https://www.ifebp.org/detail-pages/resource/survey/employee-benefits-survey--2026-survey-reportThis episode is based on a Word on Benefits blog post. Word on Benefits is a great source for information on hot benefits topics. Read the post here: https://blog.ifebp.org/benefits-to-grow-and-support-families-a-ten-year-look/
GLP-1 coverage is quickly becoming one of the biggest benefits questions facing employers today. In this episode, we dive into fresh Foundation survey data to unpack how organizations are tackling coverage decisions, rising costs, and access for diabetes, weight loss, and other health needs.
We're talking point solutions–what they are and how they could improve your plan participants' health outcomes and potentially lower your costs.
Can AI actually make benefits admin easier? We’re chatting about smart prompts, real-life use cases, and compliance risks you definitely don’t want to miss.Learn more in Jenny’s blog post: https://blog.ifebp.org/example-prompts-for-benefits-administration-how-to-direct-ai-effectively/
In this episode, we explore the surprising and rewarding world of employee benefits careers—how people find their way into the field, the wide range of roles it offers, and the real impact this work has on employees’ lives. Featuring stories from benefits professionals, this conversation highlights why this growing profession matters more than ever.
Curious how AI can improve employee benefits? In this bonus episode, our colleague Kathy Bergstrom shares seven practical use cases—plus what to watch for regarding privacy, security, and human oversight.Learn more in Kathy's blog post:https://blog.ifebp.org/seven-ways-ai-can-be-used-in-employee-benefits/
Bonus episode: we’re unpacking the DOL’s proposed PBM fee disclosure rules, sharing takeaways from our colleague Jenny Gartman.Learn more in Jenny’s blog post: https://blog.ifebp.org/pbm-fee-disclosure-regulatory-and-legislative-update/
In this episode, we celebrate National Employee Benefits Day with a deep dive into the power of volunteering and giving back. Our hosts explore the physical, mental, and workplace benefits of employee volunteer programs, share compelling data and trends—including the rise of micro‑volunteering—and discuss best practices for building meaningful, flexible initiatives. The episode also features real stories from organizations making a difference in their communities and wraps up with ideas and resources to help employers and employees get involved.
Justin talks to Michael P. Brady, Administrator for the Laborers' Local 157 Benefit Funds in Schenectady, NY about his fund's journey in covering GLP-1 drugs for weight loss and what other organizations can learn from his experience.Micheal is also a long-time member and volunteer with the International Foundation. He has served on the Health Care Management Committee and has spoken at many IFEBP conferences.
This episode is an audio read of a Word on Benefits blog post: : https://blog.ifebp.org/pbm-rebates-explainer/Read Jenny's post and many other great blog posts at blog.ifebp.org
This episode is an audio read of a Word on Benefits blog post. Read the post here:https://blog.ifebp.org/executive-order-on-drug-discounts-has-uncertain-impact-on-employers-price-negotiations/Read Jenny's post and many other great blog posts at blog.ifebp.org/
, the book Julie found so helpful in her planning, is available to anyone! Get your own copy at http://www.ifebp.org/readyornotBe sure to listen to the end for Julie's special message to listeners! Yes, you read that correctly - Julie has retired and this is her final episode after 9 (yes, NINE!) years behind the Talking Benefits microphone. The Talking Benefits crew is so incredibly happy for her, but we'll certainly miss her benefits expertise, nerdiness, and especially her warm and ever-present laugh!
This week, Julie chats with special guest Paula Stop, Director of Total Rewards at The Fresh Market, about savings programs in a diverse workforce
The cost of cancer care is rising in the U.S. for patients and employers. Learn how those costs are shaping some U.S. employers' health care benefit offerings in this bonus episode.Read Rebecca's post and many other great blog posts at https://blog.ifebp.org/ View the entire Cancer/Oncology Care Strategies: 2025 Pulse Survey report at https://www.ifebp.org/CancerCare2025International Foundation members get access to all the Foundation's timely research and much more! Learn about membership at https://www.ifebp.org/membership
This episode is an audio read of a Word on Benefits blog post at www.ifebp.org/blogTo find more resources, including a template of a disaster recovery policy and sample documents, visit the Benefits Knowledge Center: www.ifebp.org/resources---news/b…s-knowledge-center
This week, Justin chats with special guest Michael Stoyanovich, Vice President and Senior Consultant in Segal’s Administration & Technology Consulting practice about the use of artificial intelligence in health plans.
The Big Beautiful Bill impacts employee benefits in a big way. We're sorting through it all from retirement plan changes to commuter reimbursements and more.
This week, Anne chats with special guest Dr. Tyler Amell, about the science behind the aging process .
This episode is an audio read of a Word on Benefits blog post. Read the post here: https://blog.ifebp.org/what-the-executive-order-increasing-pbm-fee-transparency-means-for-employers/To find more resources, including a template of a disaster recovery policy and sample documents, visit the Benefits Knowledge Center: www.ifebp.org/resources---news/b…s-knowledge-center
In this episode we're talking to Chelsea Ryckis, President of Ethos Benefits on what it means to view your health plan through the eyes of a fiduciary and how that perspective could lead to savings and improved benefits for your employees.Chelsea presented on this topic at the 2024 International Society of Certified Employee Benefit Specialists Symposium. Hear many other great presentations like hers at this year’s Symposium! https://www.iscebs.org/symposiumCheck out Chelsea’s own podcast from Ethos Benefits: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Don't forget - if you manage an ERISA plan, you're legally required to think (and act!) like a fiduciary. The International Foundation has your back with everything you need to know about your fiduciary duties in one easy-to-understand e-learning course. It's a great option to learn about your duties for the first time or brush up on them: https://www.ifebp.org/education---events/virtual-education-and-webcasts/e-learning-course/e-learning-courses/fiduciary-responsibility-for-erisa-plans
This week, Justin chats with special guest Ryan Picarella, Executive Director of the Wellness Alliance, about wellness in the workplace.
This week, we focus on this years theme for National Employee Benefits Day, which is future-ready financial education. We’re diving into the financial stress and mental health of workers. Visit www.ifebp.org/benefitsday for more information.
This episode is an audio read of a Word on Benefits blog post. Read the post here: https://blog.ifebp.org/building-resilience-how-to-prepare-your-organization-for-disasters/To find more resources, including a template of a disaster recovery policy and sample documents, visit the Benefits Knowledge Center: https://www.ifebp.org/resources---news/benefits-knowledge-center
What do tiny houses have to do with your staff? A lot, as it turns out. Well, kind of. Host Stacy talks with International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans VP of Talent, Andie Gebert, on her advice and insights for how employers can navigate communications, policies and more for employees spanning four, sometimes five generations, all with different sets of values.
This week, we are joined by special guest Jason Sheffield, the National Director of Compliance at The Baldwin Group, Inc. Join us as we discuss best practices in cybersecurity and updates on recent events.
Did you know there are at least 40 potential areas of employee benefit plan regulations and legislation to watch in 2025 and beyond? In this episode we discuss the things employee benefits professionals should have on their radar in this new presidential administration.Read our colleague, Jenny Gartman's wonderful blog at www.ifebp.org/blogWatch the webcast we discuss at www.ifebp.org/webcasts
We talk with Vikki Walton, a leader of health equity on how employers can decrease disparities among their employees' and improve the health of employees and their families with benefit offerings and workplace culture.
On this episode, we revisit the topic of mental health initiatives, in honor of World Mental Health Day on October 10th.Catch our Mental Health in the Workplace Virtual Conference on October 9th!Learn more at https://www.ifebp.org/education---events/virtual-education-and-webcasts/virtual-conferences---workshops/mental-health-in-the-workplace-virtual-conference/home
On this Benefits Bonus episode, we take a look at the results of our 2024 Employee Benefits Survey and see how the industry of employee benefits is changing.
This month, we focus on the state of GLP-1 drug coverage, and how it is effecting the benefits community.
We talk all things women health and well-being with Dr. Lana Saal – how women's health issues impact the workforce, why employers should care and how they can help. Dr. Saal gives us the details on how new benefits or simple tweaks to your existing benefit plan can make a huge positive impact on the lives of your staff, your workplace culture and your organization's productivity.
On this episode, we discuss the recent regulatory releases out of Washington D.C. and what they mean for the health benefits industry.
This month the Pod Squad discusses the trends we're seeing in employer financial education benefits and how educating employees on their personal finances can better your organization.Find all of the International Foundation resources and tools Anne and Julie discussed here: http://www.ifebp.org/retirementsecurity
This week, we focus on this years theme for National Employee Benefits Day, which is addressing loneliness in the workplace and what employers can do to help.Visit www.ifebp.org/benefitsday for more information about the best day of the year!
We dive into the many options and why employers may want to consider offering benefits for family-forming services like IFV, egg harvesting, egg and sperm freezing, surrogacy, etc.
Artificial Intelligence seems to be taking the world by storm, but can it be applied to employee benefits? We dive into how this new technology can help benefits professionals and when they should be cautious.This episode is an audio read of a Word on Benefits blog post. Read the post here: https://blog.ifebp.org/three-ways-to-use-ai-in-employee-benefits/
In what has become a Talking Benefits tradition, we're recapping all the big benefits news from 2023 in this last episode of the year.Here are links to all of the International Foundation content we mention in this episode:2022 Employee Benefits Survey results https://ifebp.org/store/employee-benefits-survey/Pages/default.aspxWorkplace Mental Health Toolkit http://www.ifebp.org/mentalhealthWebcast on menopause benefits https://www.ifebp.org/education/webcasts/Pages/webcast-ind.aspx?wcode=23T34&wname=the-next-stage-level-up-by-adding-menopause-benefits-as-a-creative-solution-to-positively-impact-your-organizationBlog post on Surrogacy Reimbursement programs http://blog.ifebp.org/inclusive-family-forming-benefits-surrogacy-reimbursement-programs/Blog post on addressing mental health in the workplace https://blog.ifebp.org/six-steps-to-addressing-mental-health-in-the-workplace/
Talking Benefits producer, Stacy Van Alstyne, shares her recent Word on Benefits blog post on the best practices in addressing mental health in the workplace.You can read Stacy's blog post here: https://blog.ifebp.org/six-steps-to-addressing-mental-health-in-the-workplace/The International Foundation's Word on Benefits blog has many other great posts on a bevy of benefits topics: https://blog.ifebp.org/Check out the Mental Health Survey Stacy mentioned in this episode. https://www.ifebp.org/store/Pages/Mental-Health-Survey-2021.aspxInternational Foundation members get free access to this and dozens more of the Foundation's research reports. Explore membership here: https://www.ifebp.org/Membership/Benefits/Pages/default.aspx
Caregiving, whether it be for children or older relatives, can impact employees' retirement security long into their golden years. In this episode, we talk with Craig Copeland, Ph.D. from the Employee Benefit Research Institute on how caregiving affects employees, who it affects, how it affects the broader economy and how employers can help.
ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence tool, is making headlines. But, does it have any place in the employee benefits industry? We talked to some human experts to find out.
Read Kathy's post and many other great blog posts on the International Foundation's Word on Benefits Blog: https://blog.ifebp.org/
More and more states are stepping up to fill the savings gap for individuals who don't have access to employer-sponsored retirement plans. In this episode we talk to Christine Cheng, Director of the Illinois SECURE CHOICE program on how Illinois employers fit into the program, and Kim Olson, Senior Officer on the Retirement Savings Project at the Pew Charitable Trusts on what the data tells us about these types of programs.
Employee Benefits are an important part of life in any galaxy. In what has become a sort of Talking Benefits tradition, we're celebrating Star Wars Day with an imagining of the inner workings of benefits administration in a galaxy far, far away. As it turns out, it can be a bit tricky when your participants are separated by several light years or frozen in carbonite.This bonus episode is a reading of a Word on Benefits blog post. You can read it and many other great benefits blog posts here: https://blog.ifebp.org/
In this episode we're talking financial well-being with two staffers from the United States Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) on how your employees' finances can impact your organization and how employers can help their employees become more financially secure.Check out the CFPB resources mentioned in this episode:https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/educator-tools/financial-well-being-resources/https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/financial-well-being/https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/educator-tools/financial-well-being-resources/measure-and-score/
Could education benefits help your organization recruit and retain talent? In this episode we'll school you on the various options available to employers in this area. (see what we did there?)Check out the items mentioned in this episode:Student loan benefits pulse survey: https://ifebp.org/store/Pages/student-loan-survey.aspx2022 Employee Benefits survey results:https://ifebp.org/store/employee-benefits-survey/Pages/default.aspxOther great research resources from the International Foundation:https://www.ifebp.org/Resources/Research/Pages/default.aspxLearn more about National Employee Benefits Day:https://www.ifebp.org/AboutUs/NEBD/Pages/default.aspxBest practices for student loan match benefit implementation:https://www.plansponsor.com/student-loan-match-can-start-one/
Host Anne shares a blog she wrote on the uptick of employers offering fertility and family forming benefits in order to attract and retain talent.Read this blog post in full here:https://blog.ifebp.org/fertility-benefits-rapidly-rising-as-employers-look-to-attract-and-support-talent/Check out the results of the 2022 Employee Benefits Survey discussed in this episode here:https://ifebp.org/store/employee-benefits-survey/Pages/default.aspxRead all the other great Word on Benefits blog posts here:https://blog.ifebp.org/
We're diving into the Secure Act 2.0 and what it means for employer and plan sponsors.Read the blog post that inspired this episode here: https://blog.ifebp.org/what-plan-sponsors-need-to-know-after-the-passage-of-secure-2-0-act-of-2022/Stay up-to-date with the International Foundation's Secure Act 2.0 webpage: https://www.ifebp.org/Resources/benefits-transition-tracker/Pages/secure-act.aspxCheck out the Senate summary of the bill here: https://www.finance.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Secure%202.0_Section%20by%20Section%20Summary%2012-19-22%20FINAL.pdf
Another year is coming to an end and we reflect on all that has happened in the benefits industry in 2022 with a Charles Dickens twist. You'll hear the tale of Ebenefits Scrooge and the ghosts of Benefits Past, Present and Future!Check out links to the items we discussed in this episode:https://www.ifebp.org/Resources/Pages/dobbs-decision.aspxhttps://blog.ifebp.org/inflation-reduction-act-6-health-care-provisions-plan-sponsors-should-know-about/https://blog.ifebp.org/five-critical-components-of-a-cybersecurity-compliance-review/
The workplace landscape is still evolving in the wake of the pandemic. In this episode we dive into how organizations are reacting to workplace changes and reflecting them in their annual salary increases and total rewards packages.Check out the survey featured in this episode here: https://www.ifebp.org/salaryTRRead the blog post we based this episode on here: https://blog.ifebp.org/68-of-employers-are-planning-salary-increases-for-2023/And check out all of the International Foundation's great research here: https://www.ifebp.org/research
If your organization is thinking about switching from a traditional vacation plan to unlimited vacation there are a lot of things to consider. In this episode we chat with Kristine Karnath of Moog on how and why her company made the switch and potential pitfalls to avoid.
For more information, watch to the International Foundation webcast Kristine was featured in here: https://www.ifebp.org/education/webcasts/Pages/webcast-ind.aspx?wcode=22T09&wname=unlimited-paid-time-off-will-it-work-for-your-organization
International Foundation members can watch all of our webcasts for FREE! Get more information on International Foundation membership here: http://www.ifebp.org/membership
The recent ups and downs of the stock market and the economy can be dizzying. In this episode, we talk to an investments guru on what plan sponsors can do to ensure their pension plans are in a good funding position and how employers can communicate to their retirement plan participants during this tumultuous economic time.
Over one in four employers is exploring the expansion of covered abortion services, according to a new report from the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans. In this bonus epsiode we delve into the Post-Dobbs Employer Coverage: July 2022 Pulse Survey, which revealed current abortion coverage offerings and future considerations. For more info check out www.ifebp.org/dobbsimpact.
Read this blog post and other great posts at blog.ifebp.org
Join us at the International Foundation's Annual Employee Benefits Conference to hear the latest on how this Supreme Court decision is impacting benefit plans. Register today: www.ifeb.org/usannual
When we talk about the relationship between work and family, many think about the struggles of working mothers. But, fathers face many of the same issues when trying to strike a balance between family and career. In this episode we talk to Dr. Brad Harrington of the Boston College Center for Work and Family on his recent research in the area and how employers can help dads.
As mentioned in this episode, you can learn more about Dr. Harrington's research at www.bc.edu/cwf
In this episode we chat with Alex Willis, CEO of LeadershipSurge about returning to the office and how remote and hybrid work arrangements will shape the future of our office teams and collaboration.
In a galaxy far, far away, heroes and villains still need their employee benefits, and benefits professionals still need to know how to handle coordination of benefits (and lots of tricky claims scenarios). In this bonus episode, we delve into how they handle those—between lightsaber battles.
You can read this Word on Benefits blog post and many others at https://blog.ifebp.org/
Statistically women save less than men for retirement for a number of reasons. We discuss how employers can help narrow that gap in this episode.
Read Cara's blog and other great Word on Benefits Blog posts here: https://blog.ifebp.org/
Find great retirement news and education resources here: https://www.ifebp.org/retirement-pensions/Pages/default.aspx
And here: https://www.ifebp.org/microsite/Pages/default.aspx
Have you ever told a white lie? Would you cheat on your taxes? What if you knew you wouldn’t get caught? In this bonus episode we dive into why people commit benefits fraud.
Read Alyssa's and many other great blog posts here: https://blog.ifebp.org
Apprenticeship programs have been around for a long time, but they're always evolving. In this episode we take a deeper dive into new trends in apprenticeship and what industries outside of the trades can learn from these programs.
Be sure to check out the links mentioned in this episode:
Top Trends in Apprenticeship 2022 Survey https://ifebp.org/store/Pages/apprenticeship-survey.aspx
International Foundation's Apprenticeship Resources page: https://ifebp.org/apprenticeshipresources
International Foundation Financial Tools for the Trades course: https://ifebp.org/toolsfortrades
Stop-loss insurance is a great way for self-funded health plans to avoid catastrophic costs. But, you need to know what's important for your organization in a policy. Rose Plewa discusses the top 5 considerations in purchasing a plan. You can read her original blog post here: https://blog.ifebp.org/index.php/five-considerations-when-purchasing-stop-loss-insurance
Take a deeper dive into self-funded group health plans by completing the International Foundation's Certificate in Self-Funding Group Health Plans: https://www.ifebp.org/education/online-certificate-programs/Pages/certificate-in-self-funding-group-health-plans-overview.aspx
Check out the 2020 Employee Benefits Survey that Rose mentioned in this episode: https://www.ifebp.org/store/employee-benefits-survey/Pages/default.aspx
It's our 50th episode! After a little celebration we take a look back at some of the biggest developments in the benefits industry from the past year. Plus we let you know what to keep on your radar for 2022.
And don't forget to check out the items mentioned in this show.
Blog posts on the ACA Supreme Court case, California versus Texas: https://blog.ifebp.org/index.php/supreme-court-affordable-care-act https://blog.ifebp.org/index.php/california-v-texas-explainer
EBSA cyber security best practices: https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/ebsa/key-topics/retirement-benefits/cybersecurity/best-practices.pdf
International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans COVID-19 One Year Update survey: https://www.ifebp.org/store/Pages/covid-19-one-year-update-survey.aspx
Those of us in the benefits world have been talking about mental health parity for over 20 years at this point, but it's not all old news. We chat with Stephanie Patrick on what's new and what's ahead for mental health parity and how it affects your plans.
Do you have the right level of protection against cyberattacks? Does your current insurance even cover them? What about cyberinsurance? International Foundation Director of Educational Outreach presents her blog post on why your organization may want to consider cyberinsurance.
Read this and other great blog posts at blog.ifebp.org
This month we are joined by Dr. Tracy Brower to discuss how caregiving has changed, what it means for employees, and how employers can support those in caregiving roles.
Want to hear more from Tracy? Check out her books: https://tracybrower.com/bring-work-to-life/
And don’t forget to attend the International Foundation’s 67th Annual Employee Benefits conference in Denver, Colorado or join virtually. Learn more here: www.ifebp.org/usannual
What do long COVID, DEI, neurodiversity, mental health and wellness programs have in common? They are all points of consideration when employing individuals with disabilities. In this episode, we talk with Kellee Grimes, Manager of Health Services at Mutual of Omaha, about how to maintain compliance with ADA and other laws and regulations.
The International Foundation does tons of research on the employee benefits industry each year. As a member, you can access research and survey reports like the ones Justin mentioned in this episode for free. To see all of the International Foundation’s research and survey reports, visit www.ifebp.org/research and to become a member visit www.ifebp.org/membership
Host Justin and special guest Craig Copeland from EBRI dive into how factors like race, gender and socioeconomic status can impact a person's ability to save for retirement.
Check out the work from our friends at the Employee Benefit Research Institute at www.ebri.org
Robbie Hartman reads his recent Word on Benefits blog post on how to make your benefits plan more inclusive for members of the LGBTQ+ community.
You can read this and many other great Word on Benefits blog posts at blog.ifebp.org
Join your Talking Benefits hosts in a round of Jeop-ARPA-dy! They review the six American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) provisions and what employers and plan sponsors need to know, Jeopardy-style.
Resilience is shaped by a person’s past experiences, and their social support network, among other things—It can be a skill that we learn, practice and build on. This episode outlines seven tips to help build resilience, examples of things that spark joy (which helps build resilience), and how employers can help build resilience within their organization.
Benefits Bonus: What the American Rescue Plan Act Means for Financially Troubled ME Pension Plans by IFEBP
This episode explores the impact of financial well-being among Black and Hispanic women and offers solutions to what employers and plan sponsors can do to provide more effective financial education for underrepresented women.
Hear how the “roller coaster ride” of this pandemic has changed the lives of Ruben Navarro, fire captain II for the LA Fire Department, and his team. He shares tips and best practices on handling the pressures of essential work/front line work while maintaining mental well-being.
To require or not to require vaccinations? That is the question on every employer's mind. In this episode we're diving into how COVID-19 has and is still shaping the work world.
Check out the International Foundation survey we reference in the episode: https://www.ifebp.org/store/Pages/covid-19-update-survey.aspx
Read the International Foundation blog post on remote work policies: https://blog.ifebp.org/index.php/remote-work-policy
2020 is almost over (whew!), so we’re taking a look back at the biggest benefits news headlines of the year. Plus we’ll let you know what to watch for in 2021.
Check out the 2020 Employee Benefits Survey we reference throughout the episode at the link below. International Foundation members get a discount! https://www.ifebp.org/store/employee-benefits-survey/Pages/default.aspx
Benefits are music to our ears, so in this episode we're pointing out the (maybe not-so-obvious) ties to employee benefits in our favorite songs. Plus the producers take the mic with a surprise for the hosts. Pop in your ear buds, push play and sing along!
Check out the upcoming 2020 Employee Benefit Survey here: https://www.ifebp.org/research
And the blog post we reference here: https://blog.ifebp.org/index.php/when-disaster-strikes-employee-relief-options
Talking Benefits host Julie Stich reads her recent blog post on worker resilience and how employers can help.
Enroll in the International Foundation's mental health virtual conference at https://www.ifebp.org/mentalhealthandcovid
Find more resources on mental health at https://www.ifebp.org/mentalhealthresources
Read this and other great blog posts at www.ifebp.org/blog
It's that time of year again (cue the ominous music)... but this year's open enrollment experience may be a lot different for some organizations. We talk about best practices and tips from our members on taking open enrollment to the digital world.
Read the research report we refer to in this episode: www.ifebp.org/research
Check out the Case Studies in Annual Open Enrollment virtual conference and all other IFEBP virtual conferences: www.ifebp.org/virtualconferences
Become an International Foundation member today: www.ifebp.org/membership
Talking Benefits producer Rose Plewa reads her blog post on what mental health professionals are terming "the next pandemic" or the "third wave" of COVID-19. You can read this great blog post and many others at blog.ifebp.org.
We all know sleep is important, but not everyone gets their full eight hours each night. In this episode we talk about why employers should care about their workers' sleep habits and how they can help them log some more zzz's.
Talking Benefits host Julie Stich talks about why EAPs may be one of your organization's most vital assets in the wake of COVID-19. You can read the full blog post at blog.ifebp.org
The world has changed. Over the past few weeks, we’ve experienced a dramatic shift in conversation—Organizational leaders are working to find how these discussions become part of our day-to-day work. Talking Benefits Producer Stacy Van Alstyne gives her take on a recent webcast put hosted by the International Foundation. You can watch the webcast at www.ifebp.org/webcast
Many employees are being called back to the workplace as states begin to lift their COVID-19 regulations. We discuss how that weighs on the minds of workers and what employers can do to make the transition a bit easier.
This is a Benefits Bonus – an extra bite-sized episode to bring you some added benefits content between our regular episodes.
Read the blog post on which this Bonus Benefits episode is based here: https://blog.ifebp.org/index.php/support-the-mental-health-of-employees
We're continuing our COVID-19 series and in this episode we talk about how the pandemic is impacting employer-sponsored health plans.
Find a link to the survey mentioned in this episode and many more coronavirus-related resources at www.ifebp.org/coronavirus
We're back after our brief hiatus with a new COVID-19 series. This episode we talk about how the pandemic is impacting employer-sponsored retirement plans.
Find a link to the survey mentioned in this episode and many more coronavirus-related resources at www.ifebp.org/coronavirus
Discover the magic of compounding for yourself! Watch the video Anne mentioned here: https://youtu.be/vkzXoJkpk_Y
And check out this video outlining several of the items we discussed in this episode: https://youtu.be/38JbZwFTXq4
Its award show season and we're asking the same burning question you are - why aren't employee benefits represented on the big screen?! This episode we dive into how the characters in our favorite 2019 flicks could have utilized their employee benefits. So grab some popcorn and hit play!
2019 is almost over, so we're taking a look back at the biggest benefits news headlines of the year. Plus we'll let you know what to watch out for in 2020.
Musculoskeletal medical claims (try saying that three times fast!) have risen to the top of the list of most costly conditions for employers. Why? What can you do? We talk to a chiropractor and offer solutions to CRACK down on your claims costs (see what we did there?).
Even though our culture is opening up about mental health, the stigma persists. We talk about how employers can start to break down the barriers and help their employees deal with mental health issues.
Want to read the blog post we referenced in the episode? Click the link below. https://blog.ifebp.org/index.php/support-the-mental-health-of-employees
Open enrollment season is here! We're bringing back our most popular episode for an encore. This episode is sure to answer your burning questions about this crazy time of year!
It's back to school season, which means many are taking out student loans. We talk about why employers should care and what they can do to ease the burden for employees.
Summer is here and that means shorts and tanks. But what about in the office? We're talking relaxed dress code, early outs, biking to work and other summer benefits and policies companies are putting in to place as they put on their shades.
This episode we're keeping it all in the family talking about family-friendly benefits. Maternity leave policies, flex time and 529 plans... oh baby!
LINKS MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE
Word on Benefits Blog post on single-friendly and family-friendly benefits: https://blog.ifebp.org/index.php/single-friendly-workplace
Elder Care Benefits episode: https://soundcloud.com/ifebp/episode-17-elder-care-benefits
Trendy Employee Perks episode: https://soundcloud.com/ifebp/episode-16-trendy-employee-perks
Employees aren’t all financially savvy and it may be impacting your bottom line. We discuss how your employees’ bank accounts affect your workplace productivity and what you can do about it.
LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW:
www.ifebp.org/retirementsecurity
EMPLOYER TOOLS:
Financial education program checklist http://www.ifebp.org/pdf/financial-education-checklist.pdf
Sample employee assessment survey http://www.ifebp.org/pdf/misc/Financial-educational-needs-assessment.pdf
List of questions when hiring a vendor http://www.ifebp.org/pdf/misc/Questions-for-FInancial-Vendors.pdf
Retirement plan checklist http://www.ifebp.org/pdf/misc/RetirementSecurityChecklist.pdf
EMPLOYEE/PARTICIPANT RESOURCES:
Budgeting worksheet www.ifebp.org/pdf/misc/NEBD-YourBudget.pdf
Retirement planning worksheet www.ifebp.org/pdf/misc/NEBD-PictureYourself.pdf
Communications toolkit www.ifebp.org/news/featuredtopics/retirementsecurity/Pages/financial-fitness-toolkit.aspx
Retirement 101 www.ifebp.org/retirement101
VIDEOS:
A Tale of Two Kitties www.youtube.com/watch?v=NvBeVM_hQSw&feature=youtu.be
Go Nuts and Save Early www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkzXoJkpk_Y&feature=youtu.be
Adventures in Behavioral Decision Making (Starring ANNE!) www.ifebp.org/aboutus/nebd/Pages/2018/Behavioral-Decision-Making-Man.aspx
Bulk Up Your Budget with the Financial Fitness Brofessionals (Starring JUSTIN!) www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWlZfNXaVVY&feature=youtu.be
What can you do for employees struggling with substance abuse? Find out how to be a supportive employer, make the recovery process easier for your employees and how to avoid fraud in your plan.
Everyone gets stressed, but what happens when your staff members are too stressed to be productive? This episode we talk about how stress affects the bottom line and how employers can help their staff decompress.
We're kicking off 2019 with a three-part series on mental health and substance abuse, an important issue facing our country, workplaces and benefit plans. This episode focuses on how employers can recognize and help employees in a mental health crisis. Subject matter expert Randy Kratz weighs in.
2018 was jam-packed with benefits news and developments. We count down the top stories of 2018 and what to watch in 2019!
What's an association plan? Do you need one? How do they work? We've got all those answers and more!
Telemedicine, telehealth, telepsychology – they’re all similar, yet still different. We get to the bottom of what they are and the pros and cons of adding these benefits to your plan. Plus learn what did and did not work for an actual company putting it into practice.
Open enrollment is just around the corner. So many questions, so little time! We’ve got you covered – the podcast team is answering your burning questions about this crazy time of year.
This month we’re talking about elder caregiving– something that could impact a much larger portion of your workforce than you realize. Listen in to why employers should take note and what you can do to help your staff in their time of need.
Kittens, puppies and snakes, oh my! We’re talking about trendy employee perks like pawternity leave, student loan repayment and unlimited vacation. Could you or should you adopt these benefits for your workplace? Listen in for tips on how to start small or run with the big dogs.
Specialty drugs might only be issued to a few of your participants, but they pack a big punch for your prescription drug spend. Not to worry - we've got plenty of suggestions to help save some money.
The Talking Benefits gang is back after a quick break with a brand new format! This month we’re taking a deeper dive into how you can use psychology and human nature to benefit your plans.
It's a new year and we're serving up fresh benefits updates. Plus, some exciting news of our own!
It's beginning to look a lot like . . . tax reform! It's the busy holiday season for everyone, including lawmakers. Listen in as we unwrap the tax reform bills, tear into the latest ACA developments and share a few important updates on multiemployer retirement plans.
News, news and MORE NEWS! The fall months have brought an exhausting amount of ACA news as well as tax reform bills from the House and the Senate, so we’ve got you covered!
Hold the phone! Catch up on the past four weeks of benefits conversation. We dial it all in under 30 minutes!
The struggles of those in the paths of Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma are immense, and many may need help that falls outside the scope of the benefit plan description. How can you prepare to step up when needed? In this month’s episode, we discuss how employers and plan sponsors deal with disasters.
Forget the cats and dogs – this month it’s been raining new paid family leave laws, fiduciary rule oral arguments, health care reform changes and MPRA approvals. Hold onto your hats!
Summertime - typically a little quieter at work as vacations commence and a lot quieter in Washington, D.C. Not so much this summer. Chill out because this episode is packed as full as a station wagon ready for a family road trip!
Is the latest employee benefits news a light read or a page turner? We're going with the latter. This one has all the makings of a good novel... suspense, conflict, interesting characters, unexpected plot twists, and even a few cliffhangers!
May the Fourth be with you! We celebrate Julie's favorite "holiday" by going to a galaxy far, far away. Impossible to see, the future is. But Julie, Kelli and Justin provide insights on what the future might bring as they discuss the latest developments in the American Health Care Act, the insurance industry and exchanges and cost-sharing subsidies and what tax reform might mean for your 401(K). Plus, we rally the Foundation staff to put a benefits spin on our favorite films!
Baseball season is in full swing . . . and the benefits industry is being thrown curveballs left and right!
In this episode, we're giving a play-by-play on all the action: • American Health Care Act—What went wrong, what next? • State-sponsored Retirement Programs—How they work, lineup of states offering • Opioids—what employers can do to fight the epidemic
In just one month, the day-to-day for employee benefits professionals went from “in limbo” to “it’s complicated!” Listen in as Justin gets you up to speed in record time, and Kelli and Julie tell us a bit more about some other complex issues like the President’s address to Congress, provisions of the newly proposed American Health Care Act, new state paid leave laws, and a Fiduciary Rule status update. Plus our special guest shares why you need to celebrate on April 3!
New administration, new rules – benefits professionals feel like they’re in limbo! Julie, Kelli and Justin dive into the issues that have us bending over backwards. Get straight talk about: · Supreme Court Nomination · Department Nominations – Secretary of Labor, Treasury Secretary, HHS Secretary · ACA Status –What now? · MPRA and PBGC Developments
Welcome to Talking Benefits! Every month we share the biggest news in benefits, hottest industry trends and legislative developments. We cover everything from retirement to health care reform and whatever else the benefits industry throws at us! We'll take a quick detour for this first episode to get to know the hosts - Justin, Julie and Kelli.