Healthcare Unlocked: Jeff Grant on Policy, Payments, and People

 In this compelling episode of #GovCom Unfiltered, host Alexa Tsui sits down with Jeff Grant, a healthcare policy veteran with over 30 years of federal experience who has transformed personal adversity into professional opportunity. From implementing the Affordable Care Act to leading operations for millions of Americans' health insurance enrollment, Jeff shares his journey from government service to entrepreneurial consulting—and how he's now using his platform to help wrongfully terminated civil servants find new opportunities in the private sector. Guest Profile Jeff Grant brings a unique perspective to healthcare policy and government contracting. As President and Founder of Schedule F Healthcare Strategies, he specializes in federal health programs, health information technology, and government contracting. His impressive career includes leading the implementation of major healthcare initiatives including the Affordable Care Act, Medicare Advantage, and Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit payment policies. Most recently serving as Operations Director in the Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight, Jeff managed 600 federal staff and thousands of contracted personnel, overseeing the enrollment of millions of Americans in private health insurance coverage. His experience spans both public and private sectors, including work at Health Risk Partners, LLC, supporting Medicare Advantage plans in revenue strategy and risk adjustment. A University of Michigan history graduate with an MPA from George Washington University, Jeff also brings 22 years of military service as a retired Navy Reservist to his leadership approach. Key Discussion Points The Schedule F Story (01:11): Jeff reveals the personal motivation behind his company's name and mission, sharing how his own experience with federal employment challenges led him to create opportunities for other displaced civil servants. Pivotal Career Moments (03:11): From early career decisions to major policy implementations, Jeff discusses the key moments that shaped his trajectory in federal health programs and how each role built upon the last. Military Leadership in Civilian Service (06:21): Drawing from his 22 years as a Navy Reservist, Jeff explains how military principles of leadership, organization, and mission focus translated into managing large-scale federal operations and complex stakeholder relationships. Unconventional Government Strategies (09:01): Jeff shares innovative approaches he employed during his government service, including creative problem-solving techniques that helped navigate bureaucratic challenges while delivering results for millions of Americans. The Power of Mentorship (16:06): A deep dive into how mentorship shaped Jeff's career trajectory and his commitment to developing others, including his current efforts to mentor displaced federal workers transitioning to private sector roles. Strategic Networking (22:24): Jeff discusses the art of building meaningful professional relationships across government, industry, and consulting sectors, offering practical advice for those looking to expand their influence and opportunities. Calculated Risk-Taking (27:23): From leaving secure government positions to starting his own consulting practice, Jeff explores how to evaluate career risks and make strategic transitions that align with personal values and professional goals. Contractor Best Practices (31:51): Drawing from both sides of the table, Jeff shares essential strategies for government contractors, including relationship building, performance excellence, and understanding the federal customer's perspective. Key Takeaways Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurship