Stop Loss 101, 201 & Beyond: Fundamentals to Smarter Risk Strategy

In this episode, the team welcomes Matt Johnson, leader of Brown & Brown’s Stop Loss practice, for a practical conversation on stop loss fundamentals and the realities of managing catastrophic claim risk in today’s market. Matt breaks down specific versus aggregate stop loss, explains leverage trend, and shares why seven-figure claims are becoming more common, driven by specialty pharmacy, oncology, and emerging therapies.  The discussion explores how employers can better position themselves through smarter contract structures, including lasers, rate caps, and run-in versus run-out coverage, as well as proactive clinical and pharmacy strategies that matter to stop loss carriers. Whether you are an HR leader, finance executive, or benefits professional, this episode offers clear guidance on navigating stop loss renewals and building a more resilient risk strategy for 2026 and beyond. Connect with the hosts: Jared Bowcutt Vanessa Longnecker Adam Compton