The Business of Benefits Podcast

In this special episode of The Business of Benefits, host Austin Townend flips the script and interviews our very own President and Co-Founder, Chelsea Ryckis. Together, they break down exactly what employers need to know about healthcare compliance, vendor accountability, and controlling costs heading into 2026.We cover the massive compliance shifts from the last 12 months—including the CAA of 2026 and FTC scrutiny on PBMs—and why these changes are the ultimate leverage for plan sponsors. Chelsea unpacks why Direct Primary Care (DPC) combined with HSAs is a game-changer, why ICHRAs are just a bandaid for healthcare inflation, and how to spot the red flags in your broker and PBM contracts. Plus, learn how to stop accepting the bare minimum from your vendors and start demanding true fiduciary alignment.What you’ll learnHow recent compliance changes (like the CAA of 2026) give employers unprecedented leverage over their health plansWhy the traditional high-deductible health plan (HDHP) is failing low-wage earners, and how Direct Primary Care (DPC) actually reduces claimsThe hidden dangers of ICHRAs and why they don't solve the root cause of healthcare inflationHow to identify "red flags" with your PBMs and brokers, including spread pricing and refusing compensation disclosuresWhy vendor accountability requires more than just a "nice account manager"—and how to use KPIs and scorecards to evaluate themThe truth about big company purchasing power: why 10,000+ employee companies are often paying more than mid-market competitorsConnect with UsChelsea Ryckis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192Austin Townend on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-townend-619520103Ethos Benefits:https://ethosbenefits.com/The Business of Benefits Podcast:https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/____Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here:https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-educationSHRM:Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.HRCI:Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

In this episode of The Business of Benefits, host Chelsea Ryckis sits down with Dr. Cristin Dickerson, founder of Green Imaging, to uncover the power of direct contracting for employer-sponsored health plans. They dive deep into how getting the "middleman" out of the equation can save plan sponsors up to 60% on medical imaging while actually improving the quality of care for employees.We cover how direct contracting works in practice, why traditional insurance models artificially inflate imaging costs, and how Green Imaging is flipping the script by providing transparent, cash-pay rates. Dr. Dickerson explains the HIPAA Omnibus Law that makes this possible, how to build a zero-out-of-pocket benefit that employees actually use, and the real-world savings employers are seeing. Chelsea and Dr. Dickerson also discuss the future of direct primary care, navigating hospital pushback, and why every employer has a fiduciary duty to explore these solutions.What you’ll learn• What direct contracting is and how it eliminates the middlemen driving up healthcare costs• Why there is an inverse correlation between cost and quality in the U.S. healthcare system• How the HIPAA Omnibus Law protects employers and employees when carving out imaging benefits• The exact process for members using Green Imaging, from text-based scheduling to receiving care• How plan sponsors can structure their benefits to incentivize zero-out-of-pocket imaging• The challenges of navigating the "down the hall" mentality and how to educate employees• Why direct contracting for imaging and direct primary care are the easiest first steps for employersConnect with the Speakers:Cristin Dickerson: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristin-dickerson-md-a1a1b013/Green Imaging: https://greenimaging.net/Chelsea Ryckis: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Ethos Benefits: https://ethosbenefits.com/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here:https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-educationSHRM:Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.HRCI:Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

In this explosive episode of The Business of Benefits, host Chelsea Ryckis and Fiduciary Benefits Consultant Talia Hansen sit down with entrepreneur and billionaire Mark Cuban to discuss the massive disruption happening in the healthcare industry. Mark shares the origin story behind Cost Plus Drugs and Cost Plus Wellness, and why employers hold the ultimate power to fix the broken healthcare system.We cover how employers can stop overpaying for healthcare, the critical importance of aligned incentives, and why direct-to-employer programs are the future. Mark breaks down the hidden games played by traditional PBMs and carriers, and how taking an "outside-in" approach is the only way to truly advocate for patients. We also explore the value of having an internal "Healthcare CEO" to manage claims, and Mark shares his visionary idea for replacing health insurance premiums with a revolutionary healthcare banking model.What you’ll learn:• The "aha moment" that led Mark Cuban to start Cost Plus Drugs and expose the massive markups in the pharmaceutical industry.• Why the traditional RFP process is designed to protect incumbents and keep employers in the dark.• How to identify and eliminate misaligned incentives in your health plan to save money and improve care.• The power of direct contracting and why employers need an internal "Healthcare CEO" to audit claims and manage vendor relationships.• Mark Cuban’s vision for the future: eliminating traditional health insurance companies in favor of a healthcare banking and loan model.Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here:https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-educationSHRM:Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.HRCI:Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

Your health plan contracts are full of hidden traps and most employers never read them until it's too late.In this solo episode of The Business of Benefits, Chelsea Ryckis of Ethos Benefits pulls back the curtain on the most alarming contract clauses she's encountered in the last six to eight months. From undisclosed broker bonuses and spread pricing to termination traps and one-sided indemnification clauses, Chelsea breaks down exactly what to look for and what it actually means for your company.This episode is essential listening for any business owner, HR professional, or benefits committee member who wants to fulfill their fiduciary duty and protect their plan participants.What You'll Learn:- The six forensic lenses Ethos Benefits uses to review every vendor contract- How to identify hidden conflicts of interest and undisclosed compensation- Why your scope of services must be written down and what happens when it isn't- How to use KPIs and performance guarantees to hold vendors accountable- Why implementation guarantees matter more than service guarantees- How vendors use HIPAA as an excuse to block your access to your own data- The termination clause that forced a plan sponsor to pay a broker they'd already fired- Why the future of healthcare reform lives in contract languageConnect with Chelsea Ryckis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Ethos Benefits: https://ethosbenefits.com/ --------------------------------Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-education SHRM:Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.HRCI:Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

In this special episode of The Business of Benefits, we pull back the curtain on a real-life, multi-year healthcare strategy transformation. Join our hosts as they sit down with Connie Alvarez, Director of HR at Wynden Stark, to dissect the five-year journey of their self-funded health plan. This is a masterclass for any employer feeling trapped by rising premiums and lack of control.We explore the highs, the lows, and the unexpected curveballs—from navigating mergers and acquisitions to tackling the complexities of a fluctuating workforce in the healthcare staffing industry. Discover how Wynden Stark, with the guidance of Ethos Benefits, moved from a fully insured model to a custom, unbundled, self-funded plan, achieving over $3.7 million in savings in just two years. This case study reveals the power of a fiduciary approach, the critical role of data in negotiations, and how to build a plan that delivers both financial results and a superior member experience. If you want to learn how to take back control of your healthcare spend and become a true steward of your company’s benefits, this episode is a must-listen.What You’ll LearnThe 5-year roadmap from a fully insured plan to a high-performing, self-funded model.How to navigate a 42% renewal increase and turn it into a -1.3% decrease.The power of carving out your Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) and the massive savings potential in Rx.Strategies for implementing an unbundled plan with an independent TPA and fiduciary PBM.How to use data and analytics to negotiate with carriers and stop-loss providers.The importance of member communication and advocacy in a self-funded environment.Innovative solutions like international pharmacy sourcing and spousal HRAs that drive down costs.How to maintain an excellent member experience even with major plan design changes. --------------------------------Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-educationSHRM:Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities. HRCI:Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

In this session, Chelsea Ryckis and Julia Watt, Director of HR at Medical Technology Transfer (MTT), delve into a case study on "Future-Proofing Your Health Benefits." They discuss how MTT, a 125-employee company, achieved a 67% reduction in claims cost over three years through a multi-year strategic plan. This conversation offers a roadmap for employers of all sizes to move away from the traditional, reactive renewal cycle and adopt a proactive, data-driven approach to managing healthcare costs and fiduciary responsibilities.What you'll learn:How a small employer (125 employees) can implement innovative healthcare strategies often considered only for large corporations.The limitations of fully insured plans and the benefits of transitioning to level-funded and self-funded models.The importance of data transparency in understanding and controlling healthcare cost drivers.How to strategically unbundle your health plan and select vendors aligned with your company's best interests.The critical role of a fiduciary PBM in managing pharmacy costs, which are often a significant expense.Actionable steps to take control of your health plan, negotiate better terms, and reduce costs without compromising employee benefits.--------------------------------Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here:https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-educationSHRM:Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.HRCI:Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

In this episode of The Business of Benefits, host Donovan Ryckis sits down with Patrick Haig, co-founder and CEO of Goodbill, to reveal the secrets of hospital billing that every employer needs to know. They dive deep into the world of 501(r), a little-known IRS regulation that requires nonprofit hospitals to offer financial assistance, and how it can dramatically reduce healthcare costs for both employees and plan sponsors.Patrick explains how Goodbill leverages this and other strategies to audit hospital bills, find errors (which appear in about half of all bills), and secure significant savings. This is a must-listen for any CFO, CHRO, or business owner looking to fulfill their fiduciary duty, contain rising healthcare costs, and provide real, tangible support to their employees—especially those on high-deductible health plans.What you’ll learn:- What 501R is and how it mandates financial assistance from 80% of hospital beds in the US.- The surprisingly high income thresholds that allow many employees to qualify for bill reductions or full waivers.- How to get refunds for hospital bills that have already been paid.- Why half of all hospital bills contain errors and how to find and correct them for savings of 20% or more.- How proactive bill review can be a powerful tool for employee advocacy and trust-building, not a punitive measure.- Practical steps for implementing a bill review and financial assistance program, whether you have a fully insured or self-funded plan.Time Stamps:00:00 – Preview01:16 - The Business of Benefits Intro01:43 – Meet Patrick Haig03:11 – What is 501R?05:15 – For-Profit Hospitals and Financial Assistance08:23 – Income Limits for 501R12:00 – How Goodbill Reviews Bills for Errors13:35 – Why Don't More People Know About 501R?16:05 – The Bill Review Process18:51 – Shocking Bill Review Results22:09 – Fiduciary Duty and Overpaying for Healthcare25:28 – Bill Review Thresholds and Inaccuracy Percentages29:26 – Common Hospital Billing Errors34:28 – Implementation and Integration of Goodbill37:15 – Timing and Refunds for 501R41:47 – Where to Find Patrick Haig--------------------------------Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here:https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-educationSHRM:Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.HRCI:Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

In this episode of The Business of Benefits, host Chelsea Ryckis sits down with two trailblazing benefits leaders, Stephanie Porrino, Director of HR at Hendry Marine Industries, and Kristina Ewing, Director of Health and Wellbeing at Shoestring Valley Holdings at the Best of the Best Florida Healthcare Alliance event. Together, they share their journeys of transforming employer health plans through innovative strategies, data-driven decision making, and bold vendor partnerships, offering actionable insights for employers ready to take control of their benefits and deliver real value to their people.From self-funding and reference-based pricing to no-cost care alternatives and fiduciary governance, Stephanie and Kristina reveal how they navigated complex challenges, disrupted traditional models, and built multi-year benefits strategies that prioritize both financial sustainability and employee wellbeing.Time Stamps:00:00 – Welcome to The Business of Benefits  01:02 – Introduction to Guests and Episode Overview  02:19 – Stephanie and Kristina’s Backgrounds and Company Profiles  04:10 – Stephanie’s “Aha” Moment: Discovering Healthcare Pricing Discrepancies  07:19 – Kristina’s Journey: Unbundling and Finding the Right Partners  09:31 – The Importance of Ownership and Advisor Switching  10:08 – Kristina’s Multi-Year Benefits Strategy Overview  13:26 – Overcoming Challenges: Member Education and Engagement  15:41 – Vendor Summit and Setting KPIs for Accountability  18:07 – Hendry Marine’s Roadmap to Reference-Based Pricing and Pharmacy Savings  20:54 – Increasing Preventive Care Utilization with Onsite Clinics  25:29 – Financial Performance and Savings Highlights from Shoestring Valley  27:15 – New Program Innovations and Plan Design Shifts at Hendry Marine  30:25 – Managing High-Cost Claimants and Spousal Coverage Strategies  32:53 – Incentivizing In-Network Utilization and Mental Health Support  33:21 – Compliance and Fiduciary Responsibilities: Leveraging CAA and ERISA  37:03 – Procurement Best Practices: Questions to Ask Vendors  41:32 – Fiduciary Governance: Committees and Due Diligence  43:55 – Addressing Disruption and Administrative Burden in Benefits Changes  46:13 – Q&A: International Pharmacy Programs Explained  47:33 – Q&A: Direct Primary Care and C-Suite Perspectives on ROI vs. Disruption  50:44 – Closing Thoughts on Employee Experience and Leadership Alignment  Guest Links:Stephanie Porrino LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanieporrino/Hendry Marine Industries: https://hendrymarineindustries.com/Kristina EwingLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristina-ewing-98aa9867/Shoestring Valley Holdings: https://www.shoestringvalley.com/Andersen Construction: https://www.andersen-const.com/Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: www.businessofbenefitspodcast.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofbenefitspodcastChelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/--------------------------------Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here:https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-educationSHRM:Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.HRCI:Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

In this episode of The Business of Benefits, host Donovan Ryckis sits down with Trace Voshell, Chief Revenue Officer at GoGoMeds, to expose one of the most overlooked cost drains in employer healthcare: generic drug inflation. While most employers focus on high-cost specialty medications, Trace reveals that generic drugs, covering 80-90% of employees on medication, are systematically overpriced by 30-60% through PBM spread pricing and hidden conflicts of interest.Trace pulls back the curtain on how PBMs profit twice (on adjudication and through ownership of mail order pharmacies), why brokers often block cost-saving solutions (hint: per-script kickbacks), and how employers can bypass these roadblocks even when they feel "handcuffed" to large carrier PBMs. With real case studies showing $45,000 to $140,000+ in annual savings, this episode proves that transparent cost-plus pharmacy pricing can deliver six-figure savings while offering employees zero-copay medications.What You'll Learn: - Why generic drugs represent the biggest overlooked savings opportunity in pharmacy benefits - How PBM "spread pricing" allows them to pocket the difference between what they charge you and what they pay pharmacies - The shocking conflict of interest: PBMs owning their own mail order pharmacies and profiting twice - Why brokers often block pharmacy savings solutions (per-script fees and backend compensation) - Real case studies: How a 70-employee shop saves $45K annually and larger groups save $130K-$140K+ - The difference between GoGoMeds and Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company - How to bypass PBM roadblocks with direct-to-employer pharmacy arrangements - The vague PBM contract language that enables systematic overcharging (and how to spot it) - A 60-second ChatGPT hack to identify unfavorable terms in your PBM contract - Why zero-copay generics are a powerful recruitment, retention, and employee trust-building tool - How to implement mail order generic pharmacy mid-year without waiting for renewal--------------------------------Get more on our guest Trace at:GoGoMedshttps://gogomeds.com/GoGoClient/LinkedIn: Trace Voshellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/trace-voshell-34040b7a/Whether you're an HR professional, CFO, CEO, or just tired of rising healthcare costs, this is your call to rethink benefits strategy and finally take control.Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:The Business of Benefits Podcast Website:https://www.businessofbenefitspodcast.comInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/businessofbenefitspodcast/Chelseahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovanhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/--------------------------------Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here:https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-educationSHRM:Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.HRCI:Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

In this episode, Donovan and Chelsea sit down with Chris Deacon, a nationally known healthcare reform advocate, attorney, and former director of the State of New Jersey’s massive public sector health plan. Chris pulls back the curtain on how public and private employers are getting overcharged, how procurement and politics protect the status quo, and why nonprofit hospital systems often behave like for-profit empires. They break down real examples of claims, hospital contracts, and “negotiated” rates that actually drive prices higher, not lower.You will hear Chris unpack key themes from her new book The Great American Healthcare Heist: Why We’re Paying More and Getting Less, including nonprofit hospital expansion, fully insured versus self-funded plans, the hidden incentives of carriers and PBMs, compensation conflicts in the broker/consultant world, and why most claim review processes are built to fail employers. They also dig into gag clauses, CAA 2021, weak fiduciary enforcement, and how plan sponsors can start demanding data, transparency, and true accountability from everyone at the table.If you are a CFO, HR leader, benefits advisor, or plan sponsor who suspects you are getting crushed by a broken system but are not sure what to do next, this conversation will both infuriate you and give you a playbook to start pushing back.Get more on our Guest Chris at:Website: versanconsulting.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cdeaconc/--------------------------------Whether you're an HR professional, CFO, CEO, or just tired of rising healthcare costs, this is your call to rethink benefits strategy and finally take control.Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: www.businessofbenefitspodcast.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-educationSHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

In this episode of The Business of Benefits, Donovan Ryckis guest starred on a Be More Than a Fiduciary Podcast episode with Eric Dyson of 90 North Consulting and Brenda Kruse of Axiom Healthcare Services. Together, they break down how employers can finally escape the renewal treadmill, create a 3–5 year benefits strategy, and apply fiduciary principles to healthcare.Brenda shares Axiom’s transformation... from repeated renewal frustration to achieving a 13% premium decrease, lowering deductibles, expanding benefits, and reducing employee out-of-pocket costs by 27–38%. Eric and Donovan dig into why the healthcare system fails employers, how to identify misaligned incentives, and why transparency and governance are the keys to long-term success.They also explore PBM dysfunction, compensation conflicts, the four components of a health plan, and why employers must act as true stewards of their healthcare dollars.What You’ll Learn:What’s really behind recurring renewal increasesHow Axiom achieved a 13% premium decrease while improving benefitsWhy data transparency directly drives better outcomesWhy PBM strategy is the fastest path to meaningful savingsThe four structural pillars of every health planHow to build and follow a multi-year health plan strategyFiduciary responsibility explained for employer health plansHow to identify and correct misaligned broker/consultant incentivesPractical governance tools: fiduciary committees, 408(b)(2), comp reviewWhat responsible healthcare stewardship looks like for employersEric Dyson — 90 North ConsultingLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-dyson/Website: https://90northconsulting.com/Podcast: Be More Than a FiduciaryBrenda Kruse — Axiom Healthcare ServicesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brenda-kruse-2078386/Website: https://www.axiomhealthcareservices.org/Donovan Ryckis — Ethos BenefitsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Website: https://www.ethosbenefits.com/Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@thebusinessofbenefitsTimestamps:00:00 – Preview00:38 – Title Intro: The Business of Benefits  01:00 – Episode Overview: Axiom’s journey & fiduciary crossover  02:08 – Guest Introductions  03:53 – Axiom Healthcare Services: Who they are04:39 – How Axiom Met Ethos Benefits  05:10 – Early Challenges & The Broken Renewal Cycle  05:52 – Ethos’ Approach: Strategy over sidestepping  06:44 – Building a Multi-Year Plan07:16 – The Renewal Turnaround (13% decrease)  08:26 – Lowering Costs for Employees09:19 – Why Data Matters in Healthcare Strategy  10:50 – Making Data Simple for Decision Makers12:27 – Pharmacy Benefits: The 60% Cost Problem  13:25 – PBM Conflicts & Misaligned Incentives  15:25 – Fixing PBM First: High-Return, Low-Friction Changes16:27 – Member Experience: What Improves  17:37 – Understanding the Four Parts of a Health Plan  18:20 – Increasing Competition & Transparency19:46 – Compensation Transparency & Fiduciary Responsibility  20:35 – Forming a Fiduciary Committee  22:53 – Industry Conflicts & Broker Incentives25:07 – 408(b)(2) Disclosures & Reasonable Arrangements  26:22 – Why Compensation Alignment Matters  27:15 – Advice to New Advisors & Consultants  27:50 – Advice to New Benefits Managers  29:18 – Raising the Standard of Care in Healthcare  31:11 – Internal Alignment: How Employers Improve Outcomes  32:27 – A Better Approach: Curiosity Over Judgment  33:10 – What “Good Healthcare Stewardship” Means  34:28 – Ethos Healthcare Documentaries  35:20 – Closing Remarks & Episode Wrap--------------------------------Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-education SHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities. HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

In this episode, Donovan Ryckis, CEO of Ethos Benefits, sits down with Spencer Smith (SVP of Sales at Pareto Health and host of Self-Funded with Spencer) to unpack captives, stop-loss, PBMs, and the steps plan sponsors can take to finally regain control of healthcare spend.Spencer shares how short, educational content helped bring self-funding concepts downstream, why captives act like “bumpers” against catastrophic renewals, and where employers should start: data access, pharmacy, and a long-term strategy. They cover real-world examples—NICU and oncology claims, lasers, biosimilars, international sourcing—and discuss why employee contributions keep rising when nothing seems to change.You’ll walk away with a framework to move from guaranteed cost to variable cost with discipline, reduce claims costs without cutting benefits, and ask your broker the questions that matter.What You’ll Learn:Self-funded fundamentals and the role of stop-lossHow group captives improve predictability across renewalsThe first lever to pull: pharmacy strategy and data accessWhy “reduce claims” means smarter pricing and site-of-care, not less careThree questions every plan sponsor should ask at renewal: Why these solutions, specifically? How are you paid, where, and how often? What’s the long-term strategy beyond this 12-month cycle?POSIWID: the outcomes your system delivers define its true purposeTime Stamps:00:00 – Welcome & Guest Introduction02:10 – Spencer’s Journey into Self-Funding06:20 – Breaking Down Stop-Loss & Captives10:45 – Fully Insured vs Self-Funded Explained15:12 – The 401(k) Analogy for Health Plans19:20 – Why Short-Form Education Works in Benefits24:05 – Pharmacy Costs & Where to Start Saving28:48 – Broker Incentives and Transparency34:32 – Data Access, Claims, and Real-World Fixes41:20 – POSIWID Framework & Final TakeawaysGet more on our Guest at:Website: https://spencerharlansmith.com/YouTube: @SelfFunded--------------------------------Whether you're an HR professional, CFO, CEO, or just tired of rising healthcare costs, this is your call to rethink benefits strategy and finally take control.Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-educationSHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

In this episode of The Business of Benefits, Donovan Ryckis sits down with attorney and national thought leader Alden J. Bianchi to expose one of the most costly and overlooked failures in employer-sponsored healthcare: the illusion of broker transparency. The Consolidated Appropriations Act (CAA) was supposed to fix hidden compensation. It didn’t. Instead, it created a fiduciary requirement to ask, without ever creating a requirement for brokers to actually tell. Employers are expected to manage fiduciary risk without pricing transparency, claims clarity, or conflict-free advice. Alden brings decades of experience advising Fortune 500 employers, consulting firms, and government agencies on ERISA, fiduciary duty, ACA compliance, transparency regulation, machine-readable files, and emerging litigation.In this conversation, he explains why:CAA compensation disclosures are “an absolute joke”Brokers and ASOs avoid disclosure by redefining themselves Employers are left negotiating blindfoldedCurrent PBM and ASO lawsuits are stalled by standing issuesFiduciary governance needs to mirror 401(k) standardsMachine-readable files and AI will change everythingHidden compensation lives in places most employers never lookTransparency is worthless without someone who knows how to use the dataIf you're a CFO, CHRO, HR Director, consultant, or fiduciary of a health plan, this conversation will change how you see the entire benefits ecosystem.What You’ll Learn:Why CAA broker transparency rules failedHow hidden compensation still influences broker recommendations Why employers must build fiduciary governance like their 401(k) plans The difference between named vs. functional fiduciaries How data, machine-readable files, and AI tools will reshape oversight Why market concentration and hospital power keep prices high How reference-based pricing and captives fit into employer strategy What upcoming congressional reforms might change Time Stamps:00:00 – Preview00:53 – Show Opener01:18 – Donovan’s Introduction02:04 – Meet Alden Bianchi02:49 – Alden’s Background (ACA, ERISA, Romney Reform)03:39 – Why Employer Healthcare Costs Exploded05:10 – Fiduciary Exposure and 401(k) Lessons07:17 – Donovan on Lack of Data in Healthcare08:49 – ACA vs. CAA: What Transparency Actually Changed10:12 – Machine-Readable Files: Why They Matter10:59 – Broker Compensation Rules Are “A Joke”12:14 – Why Disclosures Don’t Work (Undisclosed Incentives)14:02 – Donovan on Conflicts in Broker Comp15:30 – The True Fiduciary Standard for Employers16:14 – Alden’s B.O.L.O.s: Override Commissions, Referral Fees17:48 – Fiduciaries Must Become Quant Analysts18:54 – Who Is a Fiduciary? Alden’s Simple Definition20:36 – Why Fiduciary Exposure Is Personal21:13 – SHRM, CAA Compliance, and Employer Pushback21:56 – Challenges With Gag Clauses, RxDC, and Disclosures23:33 – Why Naming a Fiduciary Protects the Board25:40 – PBM Lawsuits: Standing Problems Explained27:35 – Why ERISA Remedies Are So Hard to Win29:20 – How PBM Practices Impact Premiums & Wages30:31 – Employers Subsidizing Medicare Rates31:13 – The $35,000 Family Plan Problem31:44 – Extreme Cases of 16x–21x Medicare Pricing32:29 – Alden on Reference-Based Pricing’s Role33:29 – Why Obamacare Didn’t Lower Costs34:27 – Hospital Profits, Medicare Rates & Misconceptions35:08 – Are Hospitals Really Underpaid?36:18 – Where Employers Should Actually Start37:43 – Incentive Problems in Broker/Consultant Models38:29 – Group Captives, AHPs, and Small Employer Solutions39:47 – Why Transparent Products Matter40:20 – Claims Reporting Problems (Body-Part Categories)41:18 – The Real Issue: Market Concentration, Not Just Benefits41:43 – PBM Regulation vs. Antitrust Problems42:26 – Broker Compensation Should Be on Page 1 of Renewals44:05 – Hidden Comp in MECs, Indemnity & Non-ERISA Lines45:48 – Excess Compensation, Double-Dipping & Fiduciary Risk46:03 – Alden’s Final Advice to Employers46:55 – Follow Alden on LinkedIn (B.O.L.O. Posts)47:28 – Closing Thoughts & Episode Wrap-UpConnect With Alden BianchiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajbianchi/Firm Bio: https://www.mintz.com/people/alden-j-bianchiConnect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Subscribe for Weekly Employer Insights!Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-educationSHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

In this HR Special, host Chelsea Ryckis sits down with friend and industry leader Lori Kleiman to talk about what it takes to level up from HR department-of-one to strategic business partner, without losing sight of day-to-day realities.We cover how small to mid-size employers can decide when to hire fractional or in-house HR, why headcount matters more than revenue, and the rising complexity of multi-state compliance. We also unpack the hidden opportunity for HR to lead on healthcare and benefits strategy.Chelsea explains renewal “stall” tactics, fiduciary responsibility on health plans, and practical steps HR can take to earn a seat at the table with data and action.What you’ll learn:When a company truly needs fractional HR vs its first in-house generalistWhy certifications like PHR and SHRM-CP help smaller employers hire confidentlyHow tech can increase HR workload and employee questions, not reduce themA simple path to move from tactical HR to strategic HR that drives ROIThe fiduciary duty HR has on health plans, what to ask from brokers, and how to escape the 60-day renewal crunchPractical ideas HR can implement now: communications, data access, compliance checklists, and off-cycle planningTime Stamps00:00 – Welcome to The Business of Benefits01:08 – Meet Lori Kleiman04:45 – Building an HR Business from the Basement07:15 – When Small Businesses Really Need HR10:02 – Technology’s Impact on HR Workloads12:18 – Tactical vs. Strategic HR15:26 – What to Look For When Hiring HR18:41 – How Much HR Certifications Cost21:10 – Using ExamEdge and Affordable Prep Options23:20 – Moving from Tactical to Strategic HR27:00 – Understanding Fiduciary Duty in Health Plans30:36 – How HR Can Drive Benefits Strategy33:22 – Why Benefit Renewals Feel Impossible36:10 – Taking Back Control of Your Renewal38:28 – Shaking Up Your Broker Relationship40:12 – Giving Back to the HR Community41:25 – Final Thoughts and Where to Find Lori Get more on our Guest at:Website: https://www.hrtopics.comYouTube: @lorikleimanhrtopics7385Whether you're an HR professional, CFO, CEO, or just tired of rising healthcare costs, this is your call to rethink benefits strategy and finally take control.Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/--------------------------------Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-educationSHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

In this episode of The Business of Benefits Podcast, Chelsea Ryckis sits down with Dr. Zeev Neuwirth — physician, author of Reframing Healthcare and Beyond the Walls, and host of the Creating a New Healthcare podcast — for an unfiltered conversation about what’s really broken in America’s healthcare system and what employers can actually do to fix it.From the hidden “healthcare tax” driving wage stagnation to how misaligned incentives have created a medical industrial complex, this episode dives deep into the uncomfortable truth: only 20 cents of every healthcare dollar reaches doctors, nurses, and clinicians. The rest? Lost in layers of middlemen, bureaucracy, and profit-driven waste.Chelsea and Zeev explore how employer-sponsored healthcare became the backbone of American coverage, why primary care has been stripped of its purpose, and how direct primary care (DPC) and CEO engagement can completely change the game for employees and organizations alike. If you’re an executive, benefits advisor, or HR leader who knows there has to be a better way, this conversation will challenge everything you think you know about healthcare financing, delivery, and reform.Listen to this episode if you want to:Understand how healthcare financing and delivery actually intersectLearn how direct primary care can lower costs and improve outcomesHear real examples of CEOs transforming employee health and cultureBe inspired to rethink your benefits strategy without the sales fluffTime Stamps:00:00 — Welcome to The Business of Benefits02:15 — Dr. Zeev Neuwirth’s journey from clinician to system reformer06:40 — The truth about the “medical industrial complex”12:10 — Where your healthcare dollars really go18:45 — The failure of traditional primary care24:10 — Why CEOs are the missing link in healthcare transformation30:40 — Lessons from the Rosen Hotels model37:20 — Following the money: the employer’s power to change healthcare43:30 — The caregiving crisis and what leaders often overlook47:00 — Final thoughts and resourcesGet more on our Guest at: Dr. Zeev NeuwirthAuthor of Reframing Healthcare and Beyond the WallsPodcast: Host of Creating a New Healthcare PodcastLearn more: zevnewworthhealth.comWhether you're an HR professional, CFO, CEO, or just tired of rising healthcare costs, this is your call to rethink benefits strategy and finally take control.Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-educationSHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

Tired of shiny pitches and vague promises? In this solo episode, we break down a practical, repeatable system for holding your benefits vendors accountable so your plan actually performs.  From rock-solid RFPs to airtight contracts and respectful escalation, you’ll learn how to set clear expectations, track outcomes, and course-correct fast.In this episode, you’ll learn:How to design an RFP that prevents surprises laterWhat to demand in contracts: performance guarantees, termination language, fees, BAAs, data sharing, and fiduciary statusThe must-ask questions about integrations, cybersecurity, conflicts of interest, and compensationA simple cadence for accountability meetings that gets results, not excusesReal examples of catching hidden fees and fixing slow vendor response timesHow to build team culture so your staff holds vendors accountable the right wayWho this is for: Employers, HR leaders, CFOs, and anyone ready to transform a “set it and forget it” benefits program into a high-performing plan.If the truth is out there, are you ready to hear it?Like, share, and subscribe for more no-BS guidance on benefits that serve your people and your P&L.TimeStamps:00:00 Intro and why accountability matters02:10 Build a better RFP07:35 Contract must-haves and red flags13:25 Demo everything and verify claims17:40 Meeting cadence and escalation that works23:10 Real-world examples and fixes28:30 Culture of accountability inside your team32:10 Final takeaways and next stepsIf this helped, like, subscribe, and share with a leader who needs to hear it.  Tell us in the comments: What is the first change you will make to your benefits strategy?Whether you're an HR professional, CFO, CEO, or just tired of rising healthcare costs, this is your call to rethink benefits strategy and finally take control.Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-educationSHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

Welcome back to the No BS. No sales pitch. Just real solutions podcast.  This week our host Chelsea Ryckis sits down with Justin Held, CEBS of the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP) to unpack what HR, CFOs, and CEOs need now: neutral education, fiduciary guardrails, and a practical path to future-proof employee benefits.In this episode:What IFEBP is and how it helps plan sponsors with objective, non-lobbying educationCEBS breakdown: curriculum, timelines, and why employers fund itFiduciary duty basics after ERISA and why CAA 2021 put health plans under the spotlightThe 2025–2026 benefits agenda: PBM contracts, data analysis, chronic conditions, GLP-1 coverage, mental and behavioral health, peer support models, and AI in plan administrationHow to run a strategic review of your plan: surveys, focus groups, utilization data, KPIsSimple, high-impact changes most members won’t even notice, but your budget will.Timestamps:0:00 Intro1:08 What IFEBP does and why it’s neutral6:35 Conferences, toolkits, and daily benefits headlines10:12 CEBS overview and chapter network14:45 ERISA fiduciary duty in health and retirement19:18 Trends: PBM contracts, GLP-1, mental health, AI, fraud prevention28:40 Peer support models for mental health33:10 How to future-proof benefits with data and KPIsIf you are an employer, CFO, or CEO who is tired of trend increases and status quo advice, this conversation will give you a path to real savings and better outcomes. If this helped, like, subscribe, and share with a leader who needs to hear it.  Tell us in the comments: What is the first change you will make to your benefits strategy?Whether you're an HR professional, CFO, CEO, or just tired of rising healthcare costs, this is your call to rethink benefits strategy and finally take control.Connect with our guest today at: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-held-cebs/Website: https://www.ifebp.org/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/IFEBPListen to their podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-benefits/id1183535454Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-educationSHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

If you have ever been told “you can’t access your own portal” or “don’t worry, we’ve got great PPO discounts,” this episode is for you. Today host Chelsea unpacks real stories employers have shared with me and the costly myths behind them. Names and details are changed, the situations are real. Use this as a checklist to protect your plan, your data, and your people.In this episodeThe red flag no one should ignore: being blocked from your own carrier portalNo access to your ben-admin system and why that traps you from shopping the marketAsking for compensation disclosures under CAA 2021 and getting a flat “no”Fear tactics about big carriers and how to verify before you trustSticker shock: $125 PEPM broker fees and how to benchmark what is reasonablePerks over performance: NHL boxes, steak dinners, and fiduciary duty“Broker severance” and the myth of 250 years of benefits experience“Local” vs. “large” broker labels and what actually mattersBeing told you are a “small client” and why that is never an excuseShiny value-adds vs. real cost and quality outcomesKey takeawaysIt is your plan and your data. Own the logins, the reports, the invoices.Verify before you trust. Ask for proof, not talking points.Benchmark compensation and services against outcomes, not perks.Hold every vendor accountable to frequency and severity of claims, not swag.If you are an employer, CFO, or CEO who is tired of trend increases and status quo advice, this conversation will give you a path to real savings and better outcomes. If this helped, like, subscribe, and share with a leader who needs to hear it.  Tell us in the comments: What is the first change you will make to your benefits strategy?Whether you're an HR professional, CFO, CEO, or just tired of rising healthcare costs, this is your call to rethink benefits strategy and finally take control.Connect with our guest today at: Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-education SHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities. HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

Welcome back to The Business of Benefits Podcast, your no BS, no sales guide to real solutions in employee benefits.Today, host Chelsea Ryckis sits down with Nelson Griswold of Next Gen Benefits to unpack the so-called “big lie” in healthcare and show employers how to take control of cost and quality. Nelson Griswold is a leading voice in employer-sponsored healthcare reform and author of Healthcare’s C-Suite Solution, Fixing American Healthcare, and Life and Death Decisions in the C-Suite. He helps CEOs and CFOs manage healthcare like a supply chain and turn overspend into free cash flow.  Nelson explains why claims are not all the same, how incentives in the current system work against employers, and what it looks like to build a plan that puts your people first.In this episode you will learn:Why the 80/20 ACA rule can push premiums up, and what that means for your planHow to move from reactive renewals to a strategic, employer-controlled modelThe difference between fully insured and self funded, and why risk is often misunderstoodHow nurse navigation and quality data reduce complications and total spendPractical first steps to align incentives with an advisor who works for youWhen to use bundled, direct contracting, international pharmacy, and reference based pricingWhy better quality often equals lower cost, and how to steer members to itIf you are an employer, CFO, or CEO who is tired of trend increases and status quo advice, this conversation will give you a path to real savings and better outcomes. If this helped, like, subscribe, and share with a leader who needs to hear it.  Tell us in the comments: What is the first change you will make to your benefits strategy?Whether you're an HR professional, CFO, CEO, or just tired of rising healthcare costs, this is your call to rethink benefits strategy and finally take control.Connect with our guest today at: https://www.nextgenbenefits.com/Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-education SHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities. HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

Welcome back to The Business of Benefits Podcast – your no-BS, no-sales guide to real solutions in employee benefits.In this solo episode, host Chelsea breaks down what it really means to have a multi-year healthcare strategy for your company. Instead of reacting to renewals at the last minute and hearing the same excuses year after year, Chelsea shows you how to treat your benefits program like a true business plan—with long-term goals, measurable KPIs, and strategies that actually deliver results.You’ll hear a real client case study that has achieved five straight years of decreases by following a step-by-step benefits roadmap.Chelsea also shares:✅ What isn’t a multi-year healthcare strategy (the reactive renewal game)✅ How to build a business plan for your benefits, just like any other department✅ Why data access and employee trust are the foundation for long-term success✅ The difference between a slow, steady approach and a “shock-and-awe” strategy✅ Real savings examples—millions of dollars saved while improving employee experienceIf you’re an employer tired of rising costs, empty promises, and lack of control, this episode will show you a better way to run your healthcare plan.Whether you're an HR professional, CFO, CEO, or just tired of rising healthcare costs, this is your call to rethink benefits strategy and finally take control.Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-education SHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities. HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

In this powerful episode, Donovan Ryckis sits down with Jay Gepfert, President of The Culpepper Group, to unpack what employers don't know—and what it’s costing them. With decades of experience on both the retirement and healthcare side of the fiduciary table, Jay brings the receipts on how hidden broker compensation, lack of transparency, and outdated fee structures are draining company resources and exposing employers to serious risk. You’ll hear:Why healthcare benefits need the same due diligence as retirement plansHow compensation models drive broker behavior—and what to demand insteadA real case study showing 46% savings in broker feesWhy the current healthcare system is broken—and how litigation and legislation are forcing changeWhat you need to start doing now to protect your plan, your budget, and your peopleIf you're an HR leader, CFO, or CEO who’s ready to ask the tough questions and rethink your benefits strategy—this episode is your playbook.Subscribe now and hit the bell so you never miss an episode. Because if the truth is out there... are you ready to hear it? Let us know your thoughts in the comments & don’t forget to subscribe for more no-BS insights.Whether you're an HR professional, CFO, CEO, or just tired of rising healthcare costs, this is your call to rethink benefits strategy and finally take control.Learn more about Jay's work: https://www.culpepperrfp.com/Connect with Jay Gepfert on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-gepfert-rfps-for-retirement-health-and-welfare-plans-a418027/Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-education SHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities. HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

Welcome back to The Business of Benefits Podcast! In Part 2 of our deep dive with Danielle Young of ClaimDoc, we shift focus from theory to reality — what actually happens when employees engage with a reference-based pricing (RBP) plan?We break down:The truth about provider accessHow ClaimDoc achieves a 96%+ acceptance rateFear-based tactics vs real-world outcomesHow to handle balance bills — and prevent themWhy communication before open enrollment is keyThe co-fiduciary model that protects employees and employersWhat brokers should be doing (and what to look out for)Building a proactive communication strategy that WORKSThis episode is a must-listen for HR leaders, CFOs, and employers ready to take control of their healthcare strategy and rethink everything they thought they knew about RBP.If you're tired of being sold to and want to make smart, transparent decisions for your people — you're in the right place.Learn more about ClaimDoc: https://claim-doc.comConnect with Danielle Young on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-young-rbp/Subscribe now and hit the bell so you never miss an episode. Because if the truth is out there... are you ready to hear it?  Let us know your thoughts in the comments & don’t forget to subscribe for more no-BS insights.Whether you're an HR professional, CFO, CEO, or just tired of rising healthcare costs, this is your call to rethink benefits strategy and finally take control.Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-education SHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities. HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

Welcome to The Business of Benefits Podcast — the no BS, no sales guide to transforming your health benefits. In this explosive Part 1 of our two-part series, Chelsea Ryckis sits down with Danielle Young of ClaimDoc and host of Claim Talk to unpack one of the most misunderstood and feared concepts in healthcare: reference-based pricing (RBP). What is RBP? How does it really work?And is it as scary as traditional brokers and carriers make it seem? Danielle breaks it down with real-world examples, industry insights, and straight talk on what’s broken in the system and how employers can take back control. From inflated hospital bills to unfair renewal hikes, this conversation is a must-listen for HR leaders, CFOs, and any employer ready to challenge the status quo.Tune in now to learn:What reference-based pricing actually is (in plain English)How RBP can save employers 25–30% in year oneWhy fully insured employers are getting screwed tooHow to prepare your team and employees for a successful RBP rolloutWhy the right advisor makes all the differenceDon’t miss Part 2, where we dive into the employee experience and debunk the fear tactics around RBP.Subscribe now and hit the bell so you never miss an episode. Because if the truth is out there... are you ready to hear it?Whether you're an HR professional, CFO, CEO, or just tired of rising healthcare costs, this is your call to rethink benefits strategy and finally take control.Connect with today's guest Danielle Young at:Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rbpdanielleyoungConnect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-education SHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities. HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

Today’s episode of The Business of Benefits is a masterclass in bold HR leadership. Meet Stephanie Koch, Director of HR at Hendry Marine, who shares how she went from sitting silently in renewal meetings to transforming her company’s healthcare strategy — saving nearly $24 million in the process.Host Chelsea Ryckis and Stephanie dive deep into:Why most companies are stuck in “spreadsheet” healthcareWhat reference-based pricing really means (and how it changed everything)How Stephanie turned HR into a profit centerThe truth behind working with legacy brokersWhy data access, transparency, and courage are key to real changeThe ROI of onsite primary care clinics — and the lives it’s savingWhether you're an HR professional, CFO, CEO, or just tired of rising healthcare costs, this is your call to rethink benefits strategy and finally take control.Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-education SHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities. HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

In this no-nonsense episode of The Business of Benefits, host Chelsea Ryckis dives into the critical but often misunderstood world of Third Party Administrators (TPAs) with industry veteran Eugene Starks. This episode offers employers and consultants a candid breakdown of why the TPA is arguably the most important player in a health plan—acting as the “quarterback” responsible for claims processing, eligibility management, vendor coordination, and plan integrity.Eugene brings over two decades of insider expertise to the table, explaining:The core functions of a TPA—including paying claims, managing eligibility, and building plan logicWhat questions employers should ask when selecting a TPA (e.g., claim turnaround time, fee transparency, ownership structure, and scalability)Red flags to look for in TPA contracts—like hidden fees, clawback charges, or outsourced claim processingHow TPAs interact with other key components like PBMs, stop-loss providers, and networksThe importance of employee communication and education in plan success, especially when using point solutions or reference-based pricingThey also tackle a hot debate: should the consultant or the TPA be the “true quarterback”? The takeaway—collaboration is key. Success lies in choosing the right consultant who partners effectively with the right TPA, ensuring strategic alignment, smart cost-containment, and a great member experience.Don’t be distracted by lower admin fees—value, transparency, and execution matter more. If you're ready to rethink how benefits should actually work, this episode is your playbook. Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-education SHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities. HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

This week's episode dives deep into real-world strategies for transforming health plans—rooted in fiduciary responsibility, transparency, and measurable outcomes. In this powerful episode, the team sits down with Bryan Orr, CEO of Kalos Services, live from the 2025 Florida Health Care Alliance conference. Bryan shares how he radically redesigned his company’s health plan—cutting costs by 42% below national benchmarks while slashing employee cost share by more than half.With 10 kids and a 400-person team, Bryan had every reason to care deeply about healthcare outcomes. His story is a masterclass in bold leadership, data-driven decisions, and building trust from the top down. Listeners will hear how Kalos implemented direct primary care, reference-based pricing, pharmacy cost control, and transparent network replacements—all while maintaining employee satisfaction and dramatically improving access to care.From free baby deliveries to $80,000 skin grafts reduced to $2,000, this episode proves what’s possible when employers stop playing defense and start demanding better.If you're an employer, HR leader, or benefit advisor tired of double-digit premium increases and vague justifications, this episode is your wake-up call—and a roadmap for action.Key Topics:Fiduciary-driven health plan designTransparent pricing and plan accountabilityDirect primary care and local care accessEmployee communication and leadership trustReal-world savings and improved outcomesConnect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-education SHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities. HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

In this high-impact episode of  The Business of Benefits Podcast, we're cutting through the legal jargon and post-lunch drowsiness to bring you the most engaging conversation you’ll ever hear on fiduciary compliance. Hosts Chelsea and Donovan Ryckis pull back the curtain on what it really means to be a fiduciary under ERISA, especially in today’s healthcare landscape, where misaligned incentives are costing employers and employees big.Chelsea shares her personal journey from NCAA athlete to healthcare advocate after a traumatic brain injury exposed the broken realities of the American health system. Donovan breaks down the parallels between fiduciary standards in financial services and the gaping lack of those same protections in health benefits—until now.From health plan lawsuits and PBM fraud to RxDC reporting and compensation disclosure, this episode arms employers with the truth, the data, and the questions you must start asking.You’ll learn:What fiduciary duty actually looks like in practice (and in court)Why the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 is a game-changer for employer-sponsored plansHow to identify and eliminate conflicts of interest across your benefit ecosystemWhat brokers aren’t telling you—and why that mattersPractical steps you can take today to realign incentives and protect your peopleStick around for the debut of special guest Bryan Orr, whose real-world results show what’s possible when employers take back control.If you’re ready to rethink your role, reclaim your data, and radically improve your health plan decisions, this one’s for you.Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-education SHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities. HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

If you've ever felt confused or frankly, duped by your pharmacy benefit manager (PBM), this episode is your wake-up call. Chelsea Ryckis sits down with the “PBM Princess” herself, Rachel Strauss, a 20+ year industry veteran and fierce advocate for transparency, to pull back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood (and most expensive) parts of your health plan.You’ll learn:- The origin story of PBMs and how it all went sideways  - The real story behind rebates and why “pass-through” doesn’t always mean what you think  - How vertical integration and offshore contracts allow PBMs to hide profits in plain sight  - 40 ways PBMs make money (and how to spot the red flags in your contract)  - Actionable strategies like international sourcing, manufacturer assistance, and 340B pricing that can drastically reduce costs without impacting employee experience  Whether you’re a CFO, HR leader, or CEO, this episode is packed with no-BS insights to help you finally take control of your pharmacy spend. Plus, don’t miss Rachel’s exclusive giveaway: the top 10 questions to ask your broker if you're serious about cutting costs.Connect with our guest Rachel:Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelmstrauss/Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-education SHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities. HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

Are you ready to finally break free from the traditional HR rut and discover the game-changing strategies shaping the future of human resources? In this special episode we are joined by Andy Najjar, COO of FutureSolve and host of The Strategic HR Show.From redefining the path from HR manager to CHRO, to exploring innovative perks like Uber credits and unlimited PTO, this episode dives deep into what makes HR strategic, and how modern HR leaders can earn and keep their seat at the executive table. Andy shares real-world stories about saving millions on benefits, leveraging automation and AI for HR efficiency, and the untapped power of creative total rewards programs. Plus, the team tackles pressing topics like HR fatigue, upskilling, M&A people-risk, and the critical role of aligning culture beyond the written handbook.Tune in to learn how to think like a CHRO, benchmark your current programs, use technology to lighten your load, and create a workplace where people truly thrive. This episode is your no-nonsense guide to elevating HR from compliance taskmaster to strategic business driver so you and your people can win, together.Connect with Andy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andynajjarConnect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-education SHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities. HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

Could your company be blindsided by an ERISA lawsuit? Join us as we sit down with Jen Berman from MCQ Consulting, who gives us the scoop on a groundbreaking case involving JP Morgan. Unlike previous lawsuits that focused on HR and finance executives, this one takes aim at the board of directors, setting a precedent that could reverberate through companies big and small. Jen unpacks why this case carries more weight and how it impacts employers, particularly those with fewer than 10,000 employees. Her expert insights offer a roadmap for safeguarding your organization against such legal headaches.The episode navigates the complicated world of fiduciary duty and ERISA compliance, especially within the healthcare industry. We chat about the essentials of proving harm and the indispensable role that documenting decision-making processes plays in shielding your company from legal trouble. Jen dispels myths surrounding fiduciary responsibilities, asserting that ERISA principles are more than just legal requirements—they're best practices for any organization. Don't miss out on these valuable perspectives that could arm you against the mounting challenges in benefits compliance.Connect with our guest Jennifer:Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-spiegel-berman-b834b15/Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-education SHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities. HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

Are you tired of skyrocketing healthcare costs and feeling like there’s nothing you can do about it? In this special episode of The Business of Benefits Podcast, we flip the script on traditional benefits planning. CEO of Ethos Benefits, Donovan Ryckis, sits down with Bryan Orr, President of Kalos Services and host of the HVAC School Podcast, to dive deep into how Kalos transformed its healthcare strategy—saving money while improving employee benefits.  From slashing insurance premiums by 40% to eliminating unnecessary costs and navigating a broken system, this conversation is packed with real-world strategies and eye-opening insights. If you're an employer looking for practical ways to cut costs without cutting care, this episode is a must-listen.  We also break down the hidden truths behind insurance pricing, pharmacy benefit managers, and hospital billing practices—exposing how businesses are often overcharged without even realizing it. Learn how Kalos Services leveraged transparency, direct primary care, and strategic cost controls to take back control of their healthcare expenses while enhancing coverage for their employees.  Tune in now to learn how to take control of your healthcare plan, empower your employees, and break free from the insurance trap!Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts!Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-education SHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities. HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.

In this episode of The Business of Benefits, host Chelsea Ryckis dives into a crucial topic for HR professionals, CFOs, and employers—how to indemnify the risk of your fiduciary committee. If you're involved in employee benefits decisions, you’re likely acting as a fiduciary under ERISA, which means you have a legal and ethical responsibility to act in the best interest of your employees.  Joining Chelsea is professional liability expert Paul Hacker, who breaks down the essential insurances every fiduciary committee should have, including fiduciary insurance, directors & officers coverage, cyber insurance, errors & omissions, and fidelity bonds. With recent lawsuits personally naming HR executives and financial officers, it’s never been more critical to ensure you and your team are protected.  Tune in as we unpack what these policies cover, how they’re priced, and why even fully insured plans aren’t exempt from fiduciary liability. Don’t leave yourself exposed—get the insights you need to safeguard your role and your company.  Listen now and make sure your fiduciary committee is covered!Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/Finished with the content? Claim your CE credit here: https://ideas.ethosbenefits.com/continuing-education SHRM: Ethos Benefits is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities. HRCI: Ethos Benefits is approved to offer HRCI® recertification credits for this program. This program has been approved for 0.5 - 1 HR (General) recertification credit(s) toward aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, and GPHR® certification.----------------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello LabsWebsite: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

This episode is not just another dialogue; it's an exposé of the often hidden truths within the benefits system. As a registered nurse, Deb sheds light on the intricacies of medical management and its profound impact on healthcare delivery and financing.Listeners will be captivated by personal anecdotes and insights into the tumultuous journey toward healthcare transparency, challenging the status quo one employer decision at a time. From dissecting the roles of medical management in both fully insured and self-funded plans to unveiling the truth behind automated prior authorizations and claim denials, this episode leaves no stone unturned.Deb emphasizes the pivotal role employers play in reshaping the healthcare landscape, urging them to see beyond the traditional confines set by large carriers. With her direct and passionate approach, she shares innovative ways to integrate medical management, ensuring quality care while efficiently managing costs. Listeners will walk away not only inspired but also empowered with the knowledge and tools necessary to initiate change within their organization. This episode promises to shift your perspective and potentially save your business significant expenses—all while ensuring the well-being of your most valuable asset: your people.Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/----------------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello LabsWebsite: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

Join hosts Chelsea and Donovan Ryckis in this engaging episode as they join Spencer in his podcast to unravel the complexities and opportunities in the self-funded healthcare space. This episode dives into the importance of fiduciary responsibility, the impact of healthcare costs on employers, and the potential for innovative solutions to transform the industry. Discover why self-funding may be the key to sustainable and effective healthcare for businesses. Whether you’re a seasoned industry professional or new to the world of benefits, this episode is packed with insights and actionable advice. Tune in and learn how you can take control of your healthcare strategy!Highlights:1. Introduction to Self-Funded Healthcare2. Importance of Fiduciary Responsibility3. Case Studies and Real-Life Examples4. Ethos and Culture in Benefits Consulting 5. Navigating Complex Healthcare Changes Subscribe to our channel for more no-nonsense insights into the business of benefits! If you found this episode valuable, give us a thumbs up and share it with your network. Don't forget to leave your thoughts and questions in the comments below! Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/----------------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello LabsWebsite: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

In this episode, we are thrilled to host the dynamic Chris Yarn, CEO and founder of Walk On Clinic. Walk On Clinic is pioneering healthcare delivery with its innovative mobile and on-site clinic model, providing employees with easy access to top-notch primary care services right at their workplace.Chris Yarn isn’t just transforming healthcare from a business perspective; his personal story of battling cancer and his recovery journey adds a profoundly heartfelt layer to this discussion. Diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called Ewing's sarcoma, Chris's experience underscores the critical importance of early detection and preventive care, concepts that are foundational to Walk On Clinic's mission.Chris’s passion for healthcare and his commitment to making a difference shines throughout this episode. His resilience, coupled with his professional acumen, makes for an inspiring conversation that you’ll find both insightful and motivating.Highlights:- Chris’s Health Journey, Battling Ewing's Sarcoma- The Founding and Evolution of Walk On Clinic- Primary Care Solutions: On-Site vs. Near-Site Models - Importance of Actionable Data in Healthcare Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/----------------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello LabsWebsite: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

Welcome to Season 2 of The Business of Benefits Podcast—your no BS, no sales, no gimmicks guide to rethinking employee benefits. This season, we're diving deep into the strategies, data, and solutions that transform how businesses approach healthcare and benefits. From cutting through industry jargon to offering actionable insights, we’re here to equip you with the tools to care for your most valuable asset: your people.In this season premiere, we kick things off with a game-changing concept: Healthcare Financing. Donovan explains why shifting your mindset from “insurance” to “financing” is the key to creating a proactive, sustainable benefits business plan. With a fiduciary perspective and a focus on real data, we uncover strategies that don't just save dollars—they save thousands, even millions, on healthcare costs.Get ready for:Transparent conversations about healthcare supply chainsProven case studies with massive impactActionable strategies to design long-term benefits plansA no-nonsense fiduciary approach to benefitsThis season is all about real data, real stories, real people, and real impact.If you're ready to stop playing the reactive game with your benefits and start implementing strategies that work, you won’t want to miss an episode.Tune in, subscribe, and share with your network. Together, let’s change the business of benefits.Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/----------------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello LabsWebsite: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

180 million Americans rely on their employers for healthcare, but what if there's a hidden truth keeping costs unnecessarily high? In this episode of the Ethos Effect Podcast, host Chelsea Ryckis pulls back the curtain on the healthcare industry's biggest myth: the idea that employers can't control their healthcare costs.Chelsea, President and Founder of Ethos Benefits, shares how misaligned incentives in the healthcare supply chain—from brokers to hospitals—inflate costs, and what employers can do to reclaim control. Discover practical, actionable strategies for navigating rising premiums, negotiating better contracts, and reducing costs without compromising care.Chelsea also shares her personal journey from aspiring medical student to healthcare innovator, revealing how her experiences with brain injury and medical debt inspired her mission to help businesses and employees thrive.Don't miss this eye-opening conversation on how to dismantle the status quo, empower businesses, and create a financially sustainable healthcare plan for your team.Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/----------------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello LabsWebsite: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

Listen as we explore a transformative journey that begins with the launch of an insurance agency at just 25, in a fiercely competitive industry. Tune into an inspiring narrative of resilience, adaptability, and strategic growth, marked by a life-altering brain injury and insightful experiences navigating the healthcare system.In this episode, we unravel the myths surrounding healthcare costs and challenge the status quo. Discover how Ethos Benefits' revolutionary flat fee model empowers business owners to take control of their healthcare expenses, shifting power away from commission-driven brokers. Our featured documentary, backed by credible voices like ex-hospital CEOs, serves as a clarion call for transparency and action in the healthcare industry.From personal growth to strategic leadership, and celebrating women's empowerment, this episode is packed with humor, insight, and a powerful message that success is a journey, not a destination. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned leader, tune in for an inspiring conversation that challenges conventions and paves the way for lasting impact.Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more empowering content! Connect with us on LinkedIn and Instagram for updates on upcoming projects, including our eye-opening documentary.Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/----------------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello LabsWebsite: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

In this episode, we dive into the world of employee healthcare with Korie, a dedicated account manager at Ethos Benefits. Kories hares her inspiring journey into the insurance industry and passion for making healthcare more accessible and humanized for both employers and employees.We also tackle pressing challenges, like those faced by pregnant members in Florida, and how Ethos Benefits' innovative Care Coach program supports them in navigating complex healthcare landscapes. Korie explains the revolutionary direct primary care (DPC) program offered by Ethos, which emphasizes personalized patient-physician relationships and zero out-of-pocket costs. This innovative model not only enhances healthcare accessibility but also reduces the need for costly urgent care or ER visits.Celebrate with us as we honor Ethos Benefits' recent recognition with the Benefits Pro Luminary Award, acknowledging their commitment to transforming healthcare access and humanizing employee benefits. Join us for an insightful discussion on how Ethos Benefits is leading the way towards a healthier, more supportive workforce.Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/----------------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello LabsWebsite: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

In this compelling episode of Ethos Effect, host Donovan Ryckis sits down with Patrick Ansara, an Account Executive at Ethos Benefits. Patrick’s journey from studying health policy at the University of Michigan to tackling real-world healthcare financial challenges is nothing short of inspiring.Join us as we dive into the complexities of the American healthcare system, explore innovative approaches to reducing employer healthcare costs, and spotlight incredible case studies that have turned financial burdens into accessible, affordable care for employees. Discover the true stories behind hospital negotiations, proactive healthcare interventions, and the fascinating intricacies of aggregate claims.By the end of this episode, listeners will walk away with actionable insights, a greater understanding of the healthcare landscape, and practical examples of how to humanize employee benefits while ensuring financial sustainability. Don’t miss this engaging conversation that promises to make healthcare finance both enlightening and relatable.Press play and transform your perspective on healthcare benefits with Ethos Effect.Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/----------------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello LabsWebsite: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

Meghan Anderson, an account executive at Ethos Benefits, joins us as we celebrate our Benefits Pro Luminaries Award for humanizing employee benefits. With a unique dual role that bridges the gap between employers and employees, Meghan shares her expertise on navigating the intricate world of healthcare finance and delivery. Listen as she recounts impactful stories, including how her strategic collaboration with medical providers and pharmacy benefit managers saved an employee from high medication costs, thereby ensuring access to essential treatments without financial strain. This episode highlights the critical balance of reducing healthcare costs while upholding quality care, a philosophy that has earned Meghan and Ethos the spotlight for their exceptional work.We explore the complexities of dealing with insurance carriers, illustrated by a real-life scenario where a mishandled claim delayed essential benefits for an employee. Meghan sheds light on the importance of holding carriers accountable and setting up robust procedures to safeguard client interests. The conversation shifts to how building trust directly with clients can enhance their experience, moving away from the traditional reliance on sales reps. Celebrating Meghan's recognition as a Benefits Pro Luminary, we underscore the importance of empathy and efficiency in addressing everyday employee issues, reaffirming Ethos's commitment to elevating employee benefits.Connect with our guest Meghan:Linkwdin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/manderson38Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/----------------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello LabsWebsite: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

Healthcare costs keep soaring while the service remains the same. In this eye-opening episode Chelsea is joined by Andy Najjar to dissect the complex web of incentives, transparency, and innovative strategies within the employer-sponsored healthcare landscape. Najjar pulls back the curtain on how large agencies often push for higher bonuses at the expense of clients, the crucial need for compensation disclosures, and why many brokers inadvertently contribute to rising healthcare costs. They delve into the "renewal game," the significant differences between brokers and advisors, and the immense financial burden high healthcare costs place on employees. Listeners will gain valuable insights into why incentivization structures are flawed, how transparent health programs can stabilize and even reduce costs, and the critical importance of fiduciary responsibility and documentation in decision-making. By the end of the episode, you'll be better equipped to scrutinize your broker's fees, understand the myths surrounding healthcare costs, and explore more cost-effective and proactive strategies for your business. Plus, don’t miss the exclusive preview of Najjar’s upcoming healthcare documentary and its potential to drive transparency and change in the industry. Get ready to transform how you approach healthcare benefits with this essential episode.Connect with our guest Andy:Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/andynajjarConnect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/----------------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello LabsWebsite: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

Waking up at 3 AM to drive hundreds of miles, sacrificing personal comforts, and confronting business challenges head-on—all to build a successful seven-figure enterprise isn’t a task everyone is up for. In this episode, Chelsea Ryckis is interviewed by Justin Thomas to delve into the foundational sacrifices and strategic decisions that led to the growth of Ethos Benefits. Listeners will hear about Donovan's pivotal choice to prioritize education and reinvestment over immediate profits, and Chelsea’s personal challenges and triumphs in defining and operationalizing core company values. The episode also highlights the innovative communication strategies implemented to improve employee engagement and benefits utilization, and the strategic pivot of divesting small accounts to focus on impactful solutions for larger enterprises.Gain valuable insights into entrepreneurship, learn the importance of continuous personal development and coaching, and discover transformative strategies to reduce healthcare costs while boosting employee satisfaction. This episode promises actionable advice, inspiration from real-world examples, and a compelling story of perseverance and strategic growth.Connect with our guest Justin:Website: https://bullbenefits.com/podcastConnect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/----------------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello LabsWebsite: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

Imagine being told you'd never succeed, failing repeatedly, and struggling through immense personal hardship—only to emerge stronger, more resilient, and wildly successful. In this riveting episode, we dive deep into the astonishing journeys of two incredible individuals who turned every setback into a stepping stone for greatness.Join Chelsea Ryckis and Taylor Young as they unpack their extraordinary paths through life's severest challenges—overcoming brain injuries, navigating divorce, and conquering financial turmoil. With raw emotion and unfiltered honesty, Taylor shares how a friend's snide remark became the initial spark of his entrepreneurial fire, driving him to prove the doubters wrong. Chelsea recounts her transformation from a celebrated athlete to a top-tier business leader and industry award-winner, revealing the inevitable hurdles and victories that shaped her journey. Together, they explore the critical shifts in mindset needed to thrive, the importance of adaptability and systematic growth in business, and the often-overlooked value of personal development and self-care.Listeners will gain invaluable insights on resilience, the power of harnessing inner ethos, and the importance of balancing ambition with well-being. Chelsea and Taylor's stories will inspire you to face your own challenges head-on, adopt new strategies for personal and professional growth, and leverage your unique strengths to create sustainable success. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or someone navigating life's ups and downs, this episode offers a wealth of wisdom on turning adversity into advantage and achieving lasting fulfillment.Connect with Be Extraordinary:Website: https://beextraordinarypodcast.com/Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/----------------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello LabsWebsite: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

What if you could transform your business operations with just one hour a month? We are joined by serial entrepreneur Heidi DeCoux, who not only built and sold multiple businesses, including a seven-figure deal, but is also revolutionizing small business accounting with her new AI-powered software, CashFlow AI. This episode dives deep into Heidi's journey from early entrepreneurship to her latest venture, the challenges and triumphs she's encountered, and her unique approach to operational efficiency and continuous learning. Along the way, Heidi shares actionable insights on managing financial stress, setting up efficient systems, and embracing imperfections in both business and life. Listeners will walk away with practical strategies to elevate their own ventures, optimize their financial management, and tackle challenges with newfound confidence. Tune in for an enriching conversation packed with tips, resources, and inspiration to help you thrive in the entrepreneurial world.Connect with our guest Heidi: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heididecoux/Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/----------------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello LabsWebsite: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

In this special episode, hosts Donovan and Chelsea Ryckis sit down with Brian Desind, the visionary entrepreneur behind Privada Cigar Club. Brian shares his remarkable journey from being a sneakerhead in LA to transforming the cigar industry with his innovative subscription service.We explore how he’s built meaningful relationships with manufacturers, pioneered the concept of "farm rolled" cigars, and driven rapid business growth through storytelling and education. Brian also opens up about his ethos, shaped by a chaotic childhood, and how it fuels his relentless pursuit of excellence in products and experiences. We dive into broader themes like business strategy, the importance of differentiation, and the challenges of disrupting significant industries, including healthcare. Tune in for an episode brimming with insights, inspiration, and a fresh perspective on achieving success in business and beyond. Whether you're a cigar aficionado or simply interested in entrepreneurial stories, this episode offers something for everyone.Brian Desind, a notable figure in the cigar industry, is renowned for his transition from a musician to a successful entrepreneur. He co-founded Privada Cigar Club in 2017 alongside Ofelia Desind. Based in Orlando, Florida, Privada Cigar Club began as a monthly subscription service offering rare and limited-edition cigars. It quickly gained popularity, becoming legendary with over 18,000 monthly subscribers. The club is unique in its focus on educating cigar smokers about these exclusive cigars and the stories behind them.In addition to Privada Cigar Club, Desind initiated the Limited Cigars Association (LCA) in July 2020. This venture aims to rejuvenate brick-and-mortar premium cigar shops across the United States. The LCA operates by distributing limited quantities of popular products to various shops and then promoted across Privada Cigar Club's social media channels. This approach has been highly successful, with the featured cigars often selling out rapidly.Desind's journey from creating catchy music to revolutionizing the cigar industry exemplifies his innovative approach to business. He has effectively applied storytelling and branding techniques learned from the music industry to market and promote cigars. This unique blend of skills and experiences has enabled Desind to make a significant impact in the cigar world.Connect with our guest Brian:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/privadacigarclub/Website: https://privadacigarclub.com/Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/----------------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello LabsWebsite: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

Dive into the intricate world of hydrogen technology and industrial decarbonization featuring the brilliant mind of Katherine Mizrahi. In this compelling episode, Katherine unfolds the potential of hydrogen as a game-changer in industrial processes—from its generation through steam methane reforming to its innovative recycling and repurposing to reduce CO2 impact. Learn about the exciting developments in transporting hydrogen through existing natural gas pipelines and how these advancements could revolutionize energy infrastructure.With a strong materials science and engineering background from MIT, Katherine co-founded Osmoses—a cutting-edge startup focused on developing large-scale membranes for precise gas separations. She shares the journey of Osmoses, including the pilot system that’s as portable as a truckload, yet powerful enough to process high volumes of gas through stackable membrane modules. The episode delves into the collaborative efforts with Canada’s emission reduction initiatives and the comparative ease of working with energy-committed nations.Listeners will gain insights into the process of creating new rigid polymeric materials for gas separation, the financial and environmental incentives associated with renewable natural gas, and the significant governmental support backing breakthrough technologies. Through Katherine’s narrative, discover the ethos of continuous growth, impact, and adaptation that drives Osmosis, promising innovations in clean technology, energy efficiency, and cost-effective solutions for reducing industrial emissions.Connect with  our guest Katherine: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/kattttmiz/Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/----------------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello LabsWebsite: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

Tired of the same old business advice that fails to address the real challenges you face? In this episode of Ethos Effect, award-winning journalist and former TV news anchor Sonni Abatta joins hosts Donovan and Chelsea Ryckis to discuss the importance of effective media strategies for businesses in today's complex landscape.From navigating the ever-changing world of social media to crafting compelling messages for live events, Sonni shares her extensive experience and insights on how businesses can attract attention and customers in an authentic and engaging way. The conversation also delves into the personal challenges and growth opportunities that come with putting yourself out there as a business leader or expert.Throughout the episode, Sonni emphasizes the importance of brand discovery, understanding your audience, and communicating your ethos effectively across various media platforms. Donovan and Chelsea also share their own experiences and challenges in promoting their healthcare documentary and consulting work.Listeners will come away with practical advice on how to streamline their media operations, craft concise and impactful messages, and push through the discomfort of personal branding to build confidence and competence in their field. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for navigating the complex world of media and marketing.Connect with our guest Sonni: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonniabatta/Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/----------------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello LabsWebsite: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

Are you ready to discover a groundbreaking approach to mental health treatment that could revolutionize the way we address depression, anxiety, and PTSD? In this captivating episode of Ethos Effect, hosts Chelsea and Donovan Ryckis sit down with special guest Sherry Rais, CEO and founder of Enthea, to explore the transformative potential of psychedelic-assisted therapy.Sherry Rais shares her incredible journey of discovering the benefits of psychedelic-assisted therapy, backed by clinical studies showing a remarkable 65% to 80% success rate in treating mental health conditions. She delves into the science behind ketamine, a safe and widely-used anesthetic that works on NMDA receptors in the brain, increasing neuroplasticity and leading to potential healing effects.Throughout the episode, the discussion touches on the accessibility and cost-effectiveness of ketamine therapy, the shortcomings of traditional antidepressant treatments, and the staggering impact of untreated mental health on employers and the workforce. Sherry Rais also shares her vision for Enthea, which aims to address the root causes of mental health issues and expand coverage for ketamine therapy to millions of lives in the coming years.Listeners will gain valuable insights into the potential of psychedelic-assisted therapy, not only for treating diagnosable conditions but also for personal optimization and spiritual connection. They will learn about the rigorous standards of care and credentialing employed by Enthea's network of providers, as well as the company's mission to create a world with net-zero trauma.Discover how an intentional approach to psychedelic-assisted therapy could pave the way for mainstream acceptance and FDA approval of these groundbreaking treatments.Connect with our guest Sherry:Linkedin:  https://www.enthea.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherryrais/Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/----------------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello LabsWebsite: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

Dr. Jeffrey Gladden is the CEO and chief medical officer of Gladden Longevity in Dallas, Texas, as well as a renowned expert in optimizing health and longevity, and the author of the book "100 is the New 30."  He shares his fascinating journey from cardiology to his current passion for health optimization, sparked by his own health struggles in his fifties. We delve into the groundbreaking practices and technologies he employs to help individuals achieve a youthful body and a wise mind, no matter their chronological age. Dr. Gladden speaks on the significance of living young for a lifetime, the power of redefining our approach to aging, and his visionary goal of creating 100-year-olds with 300-year-old minds and 30-year-old bodies.Whether you're intrigued by the latest advancements in medical technology, looking to live a vibrant, joyful life, or just curious about Dr. Gladden's inspiring work and story, this episode is packed with insights and valuable information you won't want to miss!Connect with our guest Dr. Gladden:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gladdenlongevity/Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/----------------------------------------Podcast Produced by Hi Hello LabsWebsite: https://www.hihellolabs.com/